Northern Elders Forum Urges Tinubu to Address Lopsided Appointments, Disband Census Committee
NEF Warns Against Regional Bias in Federal Appointments
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address what it describes as a pattern of lopsided federal appointments favoring Nigeria’s South-West region. The group warns that this trend threatens national unity and violates constitutional principles of diversity.
Demand for Census Committee Disbandment
In a strongly-worded statement, the NEF also demanded the immediate disbandment of the National Census Committee, citing concerns about its composition and alleged irregularities in its inauguration process.
NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere accused the Tinubu administration of pursuing a regional agenda since taking office in May 2023, warning that such practices undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
Constitutional Violations Alleged
The forum specifically highlighted violations of Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates equitable representation in federal appointments. “Our democracy recognizes the diversity and spread of our nation,” Jiddere stated, emphasizing the constitutional requirement for federal character in governance.
Census Committee Composition Criticized
The NEF expressed particular concern about the census committee’s makeup, describing it as “grossly lopsided in favor of the South-West.” The group warned that such imbalance could compromise the credibility of this critical national exercise.
Call for Comprehensive Review
The forum demanded:
- Immediate review of all federal appointments
- Equitable redistribution across geopolitical zones
- Strict adherence to constitutional federal character principles
Jiddere reminded the administration that its 2023 electoral victory relied on nationwide support, with Northern states contributing significantly. “This should be a guiding principle, not a license to alienate other regions,” he cautioned.
Warning of National Consequences
The NEF concluded with a stark warning: “Continued disregard for equity and justice threatens Nigeria’s very unity,” urging immediate corrective action to preserve national stability.
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