The League of Northern Democrats (LND) described the recent management changes at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as worrisome, stressing that it smacks of ethnic marginalisation which could result in corruption and nepotism.
LND, while acknowledging the president’s powers to make appointments as he deems fit, said the dominance of President Bola Tinubu’s own ethnic group, in key government positions is concerning.
Recall that President Bola Tinubu, sacked the management and board of NNPCL, removing Mele Kyari as the Group CEO.
The president however appointed a new 11-man board with Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO and Musa Ahmadu-Kida as non-executive chairman.
Reacting however, LND, in a statement by its spokesman, Dr. Ladan Salihu, said the recent development raises several issues concerning marginalisation, ethnic tensions, corruption and nepotism.
Noting that appointments could marginalise other ethnic groups, LND said, “When one ethnic group monopolizes government positions, it risks marginalising other groups. Such marginalization can lead to feelings of disenfranchisement and exclusion.”
LND also said the appointments could exacerbate ethnic tensions, adding “The perception of favouritism can intensify existing ethnic divisions and undermine national unity.”
The statement further said there is a risk of corruption and nepotism, adding that “homogenous appointment process may foster an environment where nepotism and favoritism prevail, potentially leading to corruption and the prioritisation of narrow ethnic interests over the common good.”
The northern democrats also said the appointments could lead to inequality in resource distribution.
It added that the dominance by one ethnic group can result in uneven distribution of resources and opportunities, thereby exacerbating economic disparities and social inequalities, and fueling resentment among marginalized groups.
It also said such lopsided appointments not only undermine the principles of democracy, and equitable representation, but are also unconstitutional as they defy the federal character principle of the nation.
“The League of Northern Democrats calls on the Federal Government not only to adopt a more inclusive approach in future appointments – one that fully reflects Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and political landscape – but also rejig the already existing appointments with a view to balancing the equation. This is essential to ensuring unity, cohesion and accountability across all levels of government,” LND said.
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