The prominent pan-Igbo socio-political organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has reprimanded President Bola Tinubu for his allocation of five ministerial positions to the South-East in his recent nomination list. In a statement issued by the President General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed strong dissatisfaction, labeling the allotment of five ministerial slots to the South-East as “unfair and inequitable.”
The organization, while acknowledging that the Igbo community did not significantly contribute to the process of state creation led by military administrations, argued that the South-East has been disproportionately disadvantaged by the creation of only five states within the region. This stands in contrast to other zones, which each have a minimum of six states.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s statement emphasized, “It should be noted that the states and geopolitical zones were established during the era of military administrations. It is evident that the Igbo community had limited involvement in this process.”
The group further lamented that this limitation of five states has perpetuated unequal representation and diminished opportunities for the South-East. As a result, the region experiences a shortage of governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, state assembly members, and other critical positions.
“As a result, the South East was shortchanged with five (5) states while other zones have a minimum of six (6) states.
“This situation has placed the South East in a very difficult position, politically, economically, and socially.
“Our political power has been reduced as we have a few senators and also in the House of Representatives; governors, house of assembly and local governments.
“In federal revenue allocation, the South East is denied the revenue that comes on the basis of states. In federal board appointments and other resource distributions, we are strategically shortchanged.
“We wish to observe that this situation was not caused by the current administration but we however appeal to His Excellency, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR to help us remedy the situation and restore justice, equity and fairness in Nigeria.
“We pray the Almighty to bless and prosper our country, Nigeria and give our leaders the wisdom and knowledge to steer the ship of the Nigerian nation to peace, happiness and prosperity for all Nigerians irrespective of ethnicity, creed and political persuasion.”
In light of these disparities, Ohanaeze Ndigbo voiced its concerns and disappointment, urging for a more equitable distribution of ministerial slots and broader political representation for the South-Eastern region.