***Says continued exclusion breaches the Constitution, fuels dangerous narratives
Prominent Northern lawmaker and former Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his recent round of strategic board appointments into key federal agencies, but also issued a strong warning: the South East must not be left behind.
In a statement released over the weekend in Abuja, Ndume said the President’s latest appointments—like those made in May—represent a decisive move to address long-standing concerns in the North about perceived neglect and marginalisation.
“These appointments, including the 12 in May, are clear evidence that President Tinubu is a leader who listens, responds, and corrects course when necessary,” Ndume said. “He is calming frayed nerves in the North and showing that loyalty is never forgotten.”
Among the appointees are prominent names such as Muhammad Babangida, son of former military president General Ibrahim Babangida, now Chairman of the revamped Bank of Agriculture. Others include Lydia Kalat Musa, Jamilu Wada Aliyu, Yahuza Ado Inuwa, and legal luminary Sanusi Musa (SAN), all of whom were given strategic board roles.
According to checks, the lion’s share of these appointments once again went to the North, particularly Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger States. The South West had a minor slot with the appointment of Tomi Somefun from Oyo State. But the South East was completely absent from the list.
While expressing gratitude for Northern inclusion, Ndume pivoted forcefully to the issue of South East exclusion, warning that the current pattern—if allowed to fester—could inflame ethnic divisions and damage national cohesion.
“We cannot allow the dangerous narrative that the South East has been abandoned to gain ground. It’s not only politically unwise—it’s unconstitutional,” Ndume said.
“The Federal Character Principle is not symbolic. It’s a binding constitutional obligation. Stripping a whole region of its rightful place in national representation is not just unjust—it’s a misstep that must be corrected.”
Ndume’s remarks signal growing awareness among Northern leaders that exclusion anywhere threatens stability everywhere. He noted that in a diverse federation like Nigeria, symbolism matters just as much as policy.
“While I commend President Tinubu’s courage in making these appointments, I urge him to demonstrate the same courage by ensuring the South East is fully included in future nominations. Every region deserves to feel part of the Nigerian project.”
With the 2027 elections gradually approaching, observers say these appointments are already shaping the political tone of Tinubu’s presidency. Ndume’s remarks suggest that while loyalty is being rewarded, unity must not be sacrificed.
“Inclusiveness is not charity. It is the backbone of federalism,” Ndume concluded.