Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno South under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has openly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he describes as lopsided and non-inclusive federal appointments, warning that such actions contradict the principles of fairness enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution.
Ndume, speaking during a live interview on Arise News (Prime Time), expressed deep concern over what he called “endless and sectional” appointments, which he said are now making rounds on social media.
According to him, the pattern of appointments clearly favours a particular region or ethnic group, defying the spirit of national inclusivity promised under the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.
The senator, known for his vocal stance on policies that he believes are not in the interest of ordinary Nigerians, noted that President Tinubu’s approach undermines Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates federal character in political appointments.
“Well, I don’t think I have anything to add, because the figures are there; you can look at it; I sent you all. It is not that I am making accusations or saying that Mr President does not have the right to make appointments, but Section 14/3 of the Constitution is very clear. When you look at it vis-à-vis the appointments made so far, they are political appointments,” he said.
He acknowledged the need for professional competence in key roles like the Chief of Army Staff or Inspector General of Police but noted that political appointments should be reflective of Nigeria’s diversity.
“If appointments that are professional, so to say, like you can’t appoint someone who is not a soldier to become Chief of Army Staff, or you can’t appoint someone who is not a police officer to become the Inspector General of Police, IGP, but then, when you come to look at political appointments, the Constitution, as I said earlier, is very clear… political appointments should reflect the Federal Character….., which is not the case here,” he added.
Ndume warned that such disregard for equity could have long-term consequences.
“All I am saying is to call the attention of Mr President to such infractions so that they can be corrected; otherwise, this thing can boomerang at a certain period of time,” he cautioned.
Despite his longstanding personal relationship with Tinubu, Ndume maintained that his criticism is grounded in constitutional duty and national interest.
“Collectively, we are supposed to oversee the acts of Mr President and point out some of the irregularities. This is what we swore to do. It is not personal… But that does not stop me from saying the truth, because I have the obligation to do that in the interest of all Nigerians.”
Ndume, who anticipates backlash from Tinubu’s supporters, stood firm on his conviction.
“As a Nigerian and a lawmaker, I have the right to voice this out, but Tinubu’s attack dogs will attack me, not the message… It is unfortunate that after this interaction, these so-called Tinubu Boys or people will start attacking Ndume, saying he is a very frustrating person.”
The senator’s comments add to growing public debate over the fairness and inclusivity of the Tinubu administration’s political appointments.
