Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) has once again criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he describes as a lopsided and ethnically biased approach to federal political appointments, accusing the President of favouring one ethnic group—particularly the Yoruba—at the expense of national inclusivity.

Speaking on Arise News Prime Time on Monday, Ndume expressed disappointment over what he termed the “non-inclusive” nature of the recent wave of federal appointments, which he says violate the Federal Character principle enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

“I was shocked when I saw the list circulating on social media,” Ndume said. “It’s endless, sectional, and does not reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda that Mr. President promised when he took the Oath of Office.”

The senator, a senior member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasized that although the President has the constitutional right to make appointments, those decisions must reflect the federal character to promote unity and prevent national discontent.

“It’s not that I’m making accusations or saying the President doesn’t have the right to appoint people, but the Constitution is clear. Section 14(3) says political appointments must reflect federal character. That’s not what we’re seeing here,” he said.

Ndume noted that while some appointments—such as service chiefs or the Inspector General of Police—require specific professional qualifications, political appointments are expected to reflect diversity across Nigeria’s geo-political zones.

He warned that failure to address the growing concerns around ethnic imbalance in appointments could eventually backfire. “All I am saying is to call Mr. President’s attention to these infractions before they become a bigger issue,” he added.

Ndume also addressed criticisms from pro-Tinubu supporters, saying their attacks have often been personal rather than addressing the substance of his message. “People say I’m always criticizing the government, but that is why I was elected—to speak the truth and represent the interests of the people. I have a personal relationship with President Tinubu, but that doesn’t mean I should stay silent when things are going wrong.”