The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address what it describes as a “lopsided” pattern in federal appointments that disproportionately benefits the South-West region, undermining Nigeria’s diversity and constitutional order.
In a statement issued on Friday, the NEF demanded the immediate disbandment of the newly inaugurated National Census Committee, citing concerns over its unclear mandate and the unauthorized involvement of individuals during the inauguration.
The forum expressed its discontent with what it sees as a regional agenda pursued by the Tinubu administration since it took office in May 2023, warning that such actions could threaten Nigeria’s democratic integrity and unity.
NEF spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of all federal appointments to ensure equitable representation across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Jiddere remarked, “NEF has observed with much dismay and regret that since its coming to office, this administration has created some anomalies in the philosophy of governance, characterized by arbitrary disdain for public opinion, a sense of impunity, and lack of accountability.”
He further reminded the government and the Nigerian public that the federal system is based on two core principles: constitutionalism and inclusiveness.
“Our democracy is underpinned by the Federal Character Principle enshrined in our constitution. Therefore, all appointments into federal offices and the citing of federal projects must reflect these principles,” he added.
The NEF also pointed out that Nigeria’s democracy is founded on a social contract between the state and its people, as outlined in Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution.
They criticized the newly formed National Census Committee, calling it “grossly and blatantly lopsided in favour of the South-West,” undermining the integrity of the census process.”
“The forum warned that ignoring the principles of equity, justice, and inclusivity could jeopardize Nigeria’s unity.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, the NEF reminded the Tinubu administration that the 2023 electoral victory was achieved with significant support from the North, and that this support should serve as a guiding principle in federal appointments.
“This should not be a reason to alienate other regions,” the forum emphasized.
NEF called for a “holistic review and equitable redistribution” of all federal appointments made to date across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), ensuring compliance with the principles of national diversity and constitutional fairness..
