Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s appointments. He alleges they breach the federal character principle enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. Ndume made this assertion during an appearance on Arise TV’s Prime Time, citing Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which requires political appointments to reflect the nation’s diversity
The federal character principle is a constitutional requirement that aims to promote national unity and balanced representation in government appointments. The principle is enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution. It states that appointments should reflect the federal character of Nigeria. The principle is designed to ensure that appointments are made in a way that reflects the country’s diversity. It aims for representation from different regions and ethnic groups.
Ndume expressed concerns about the current appointments. Some regions are overrepresented, while others are underrepresented. He cited examples of appointments made by the President, which he claimed do not reflect the diversity of the country. Ndume emphasized that the principle is a constitutional requirement. The President must ensure that appointments align with it.
The implications of Ndume’s criticism are far-reaching. If the President’s appointments breach the federal character principle, legal action could result. It could also lead to a challenge in court. This could result in the appointments being nullified, which would have significant consequences for the government. Additionally, the criticism could damage the President’s reputation and undermine his ability to govern effectively.
The Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa (PAACA) has also raised concerns. They worry about the alleged breach of the federal character principle. This concern is regarding the appointment of the National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). PAACA’s executive director, Ezenwa Nwagwu, cites the recent appointment of Mr. Abdulrazak Yusuf Tukur from Katsina State as a National Commissioner. This appointment adds a third representative from the North West geopolitical zone.
The President’s office has not officially responded to Ndume’s criticism. However, the issue has sparked debate about the importance of adhering to the federal character principle in government appointments. Some have argued that the principle is essential for promoting national unity and ensuring that appointments are made in a way that reflects the diversity of the country. Others have argued that the principle is outdated and that appointments should be based on merit rather than regional or ethnic considerations.
Ndume’s criticism of the President’s appointments has highlighted the importance of adhering to the federal character principle. The principle is a constitutional requirement that aims to promote national unity and balanced representation in government appointments. The President has a duty to ensure that appointments are made in accordance with this principle, and failure to do so could have significant consequences.