Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume, has demanded that Bola Tinubu withdraw the latest list of ambassadorial nominees sent to the Senate for screening and confirmation, citing violations of the Federal Character principle.
Ndume made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja, arguing that the composition of the nominees does not comply with Section 14(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, which requires that appointments reflect the federal character of the nation and promote national unity.
The lawmaker, who represents Borno South, stated that the current list shows an uneven distribution of nominees, with some geopolitical zones significantly underrepresented while others have multiple nominees.
He noted that the Southwest has 15 nominees, while the Northeast, his home region, has only seven, and Gombe State has no representative at all.
Ndume also drew attention to the death of Senator Adamu Garba Talba, the sole nominee from Yobe State, who passed away in July. His death, the senator said, further deepens the imbalance and leaves Yobe without representation on the list.
According to Ndume, the issue goes beyond political optics and has the potential to weaken national cohesion and heighten ethnic tensions.
“My sincere appeal to Tinubu is to withdraw this list,” he said. “At this critical time in the life of his administration, he should avoid missteps that could endanger national unity and promote ethnic distrust.”
Quoting the Constitution, Ndume emphasised that, “The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies shall reflect the federal character of Nigeria and promote national loyalty, ensuring no predominance of persons from a few states or sectional groups.”
He added, “I know the President to be a cosmopolitan leader who is at home with every segment and stakeholder in this country. He should withdraw this list and present a fresh set of nominees that align with the spirit of the Constitution and the Federal Character Principle.”
Ndume’s call comes amid growing nationwide debate and criticism over the ambassadorial nominations, which many Nigerians say fail to reflect equity and inclusiveness.
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