‘Lopsided appointments’: Tinubu following Federal Character Principle, FG insists

By Our Correspondent

The Federal Government said Friday that it is committed to national unity and fair representation in appointments, denying allegations of constitutional breaches on appointments.

This reaffirmation is coming on the heels of allegations of favouritism and deviation from the Federal Character principles in political appointments, nevertheless.

Speaking during a television interview on  Monday, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume had alleged that  President Bola Tinubu failed to adhere to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates equitable distribution of government positions to reflect Nigeria’s diverse ethnic composition.

This allegation has since generated widespread debates with some of the President’s staff reacting in varied ways, including media attacks on the person of Senator Ndume.

However, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation took its turn on Friday to refute the allegations, insisting that all appointments are made with strict adherence to the provisions of the federal character principle.

A statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Omohiosen on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Akume, said government categorically refutes claims of lopsidedness.

It read: The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) wishes to address recent insinuations circulating, particularly on social media, regarding the composition of Federal appointments.

“The Government categorically refutes claims of lopsidedness and emphasizes its unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness, equity, and national unity. All appointments are made in strict adherence to federal character principle, as enshrined in Section 14 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Altered).

“It is notable to mention that, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, believes strongly in the unity of Nigeria and is guided by the ideals of fairness and tenets of justice in all appointments. This Administration is dedicated to ensuring that all regions and demographics of the country are adequately represented in its institutions and agencies.

“The OSGF therefore, urges the public to disregard unfounded speculations and rely on official Government sources for accurate information. The Government remains steadfast in its pursuit of a prosperous, united and equitable Nigeria, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of this Administration. Pokers of embers of hate and disunity who carry tendentious and unfounded allegations should never be taken seriously by Nigerians.

“Inquiries with respect to this matter can be channeled through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation which is the official custodian of such appointments.”