Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC-Borno South) has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu for what he describes as ethnically skewed political appointments that violate constitutional federal character principles.
The vocal lawmaker raised these concerns during an appearance on Arise News’ Prime Time program, which aired on Tuesday evening.
Ndume specifically referenced a widely circulated list of presidential appointees that appears to disproportionately favor one ethnic group, stating: “Section 14(3) of the Constitution is very clear – political appointments must reflect federal character. The current pattern contradicts both our constitution and the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda’s promise of inclusion.”
The former Senate Leader clarified that his critique focuses on political rather than professional appointments like military or police chiefs, which require technical qualifications.
He emphasized that as an elected representative, he has a constitutional duty to provide checks and balances, regardless of his personal relationship with the President.
“Among northerners with close ties to President Tinubu, I’m certainly in the top five,” Ndume noted. “But friendship shouldn’t silence truth-telling. These appointments risk creating dangerous divisions if not corrected.”
The senator anticipated backlash from presidential loyalists, lamenting that critics often face personal attacks rather than substantive engagement with the issues raised.
His comments come amid growing murmurs within the ruling APC about perceived regional imbalances in key appointments since Tinubu assumed office.
Political analysts suggest Ndume’s intervention reflects mounting pressure on the administration to address these concerns before they escalate into broader discontent within the party’s northern caucus. The presidency has yet to officially respond to these latest criticisms regarding its appointment patterns.
