Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has condemned the continued exclusion of the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones from recent appointments into the boards and leadership of key federal parastatals under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ezechi Chukwu, Ohanaeze decried what it described as a glaring lack of regional balance and equity in the composition of strategic national institutions.
The group cited the recent reconstitution of the Bank of Industry and other major federal agencies as examples where the South-East and South-South were deliberately sidelined.
“These important institutions constitute the frontline drivers of national reforms and economic revitalization, and therefore deserve inclusive representation in the service and progress of Nigeria,” the statement read in part.
Ohanaeze further argued that the trend of appointments runs contrary to the constitutional principles of fairness and the Federal Character doctrine.
“It is regrettable that such discriminatory appointments and lopsided considerations reflect a gross violation of national equity and the principles of Federal Character as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution,” the group said.
Calling on President Tinubu to urgently address what it termed a “still-redeemable imbalance,” Ohanaeze emphasized that fairness and inclusivity are essential for sustainable national unity and cohesion.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo therefore urges Mr. President to find a way to correct this still-redeemable imbalance for the sake of inclusivity, fairness, and justice,” Chukwu stated.
