The federal government has rejected claims that President Bola Tinubu is favoring the south-west region in his political appointments.
These accusations have caused public debate, with some critics saying the president is not respecting Nigeria’s diversity when choosing people for important government positions.
One of the critics is Senator Ali Ndume from Borno South. On Monday, he said the government is not following the federal character rule, which is in section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution. This rule says appointments should be spread fairly across all parts of the country.
In response, Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, released a statement on Friday, April 11. He said the claims are “unfounded speculations” and that President Tinubu is strictly following the federal character law.
Imohiosen said Tinubu believes in unity, fairness, and justice. He also said the president wants to make sure people from all parts of Nigeria are included in government positions.
The statement asked the public not to believe rumors and to trust official sources for correct information. It also said the government is focused on building a united and successful country, as promised in Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Imohiosen also criticized those spreading the idea of favoritism. He said they are trying to create hate and division and asked Nigerians to ignore such claims. He encouraged anyone with concerns to contact the right government offices.
The presidency insists that it is being fair and following the law, even as people continue to question how balanced federal appointments ar across region.