By Ayo Kehinde
Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South in the National Assembly, has raised concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s political appointments, accusing the President of violating the federal character principle enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
Speaking during a live appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Monday, Ndume insisted that his remarks were not a personal attack on the President but a constitutional obligation tied to his legislative duties.
Citing Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, the lawmaker said the appointments made so far by the Tinubu administration reflect a lopsided distribution that fails to represent the diverse makeup of the country.
He said, “The figures are there. I sent you one. I’m not just making baseless claims.
“Section 14(3) of the Constitution is very clear. When you examine the political appointments made so far, they do not reflect the federal character as required.”
He stressed that drawing the President’s attention to such infractions was necessary to prevent future political backlash, warning that the continued disregard of constitutional provisions could eventually “boomerang.”
Ndume stated, “It’s not personal.
“As lawmakers, we swore an oath to uphold the Constitution and provide oversight. That’s our duty. If we don’t speak up, what do we tell our constituents?”
The senator, who has often been perceived as a critic of the administration, acknowledged the backlash that typically follows his interventions.
He said, “After this interview, those attack dogs—so-called Tinubu boys—will come after me. But it’s not about me; it’s about the message.”
Ndume added that he reserves the right as a Nigerian citizen to raise concerns, even protest, against perceived injustice and constitutional breaches, saying such rights are fundamental and protected.
“I know they’ll attack me, not the facts. But what I’m saying is already out there, it’s viral. We cannot continue to keep quiet,” he said.
The senator’s remarks come amid growing concerns from various quarters over perceived regional imbalances in federal appointments under the Tinubu administration.
