Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has openly criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as the lopsided nature of political appointments, alleging a clear breach of Nigeria’s federal character principle.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, Ndume accused the President of failing to adhere to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates inclusivity and equitable representation across the country’s diverse regions in government appointments.

“The figures are there. I sent you figures. It’s not that I’m just making accusations. The constitution is very, very clear,” the senator said, citing the constitutional provision that requires appointments to reflect the nation’s federal character.

Ndume stated that many of the appointments made so far under the Tinubu administration do not meet the criteria for balanced representation, raising concerns about the potential political and social consequences of such perceived marginalisation.

“It is because of avoiding such infractions that the constitution clearly states that appointments, especially political appointments, should reflect the federal character. That is not the case here,” he asserted.

While clarifying that his comments were not intended as a personal attack on President Tinubu, Ndume emphasized that it is his constitutional duty—as a legislator—to provide oversight and ensure compliance with the law.

“People look at me as someone critical of the government. I have the right to be. In fact, that’s why I’m in the National Assembly—to oversight the acts of the President and point out these irregularities. That’s what we swore to do. It’s not personal,” he explained.

Anticipating backlash for his remarks, Ndume said he expects to be targeted by supporters of the President but remains undeterred.

“After this interview, those attack dogs or maga-dogs will start attacking Ndume, not the message,” he said. “But I have the right to voice out these things. I even have the right to protest—guaranteed by the constitution.”

Ndume’s comments have added to growing national discourse on federal representation and inclusivity in governance, as political observers and citizens alike continue to scrutinize the President’s key appointments.