Nigerian government has rejected in strong terms the increasing accusations of favourtism and lopsidedness in its appointments.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who released a statement through the Director, Information and Public Relations, Mr Segun Imohiosen, said all selections for appointments under the Administration of President Bola Tinubu were carried out according to the constitutional provisions on federal character and national unity.
The explanation follows a torrent of criticism, especially on social media, accusing the administration of ignoring some parts of the country.
The controversy started following the release of a series of appointments to key government roles, that critics say mostly benefit certain ethnic or regional groups. Hashtags like #lopsidedappointments and #fairnessinnigeria, amongst others, are trending across several platforms especially x (previously twitter), with the conversation trending nationally.
“We want to put on record that there is no unbalanced appointments at the federal level,” Segun Imohiosen, The office of the secretary to
Saying that “every appointment of this administration is based on fairness and directed by the federal character principle as enshrined in section 14 of the 1999 constitution.”
The call for equity from civil society groups and leaders from marginalised communities has put Lagos President Bola Tinubu under pressure to respond to concerns about adequate representation. but the government asserts that the charges are unfounded and politically motivated.
“This administration is deeply committed to Nigeria’s unity,” imohiosen added. “President Tinubu believes that no region or demographic should be left behind. we urge nigerians to rely on verified information and not be misled by the speculations circulating online.”
In a country as diverse as Nigeria, where ethnicity, religion, and regional affiliations play powerful roles in political perception – allegations of bias are particularly sensitive. several previous administrations have been accused of similar imbalances, though many promised inclusive governance.
the government’s statement also carried a stern warning against what it described as “pokers of embers of hate and disunity.” imohiosen noted that individuals spreading “tendentious and unfounded allegations” should not be taken seriously.
