The prominent pan-Igbo socio-political organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has voiced its disapproval of President Bola Tinubu’s allocation of only five ministerial positions to the South-East in his list of nominees. In a statement released by its President General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed strong dissatisfaction, labeling the allocation as “unfair and unjust.”
The organization pointed out that the South-East region had not significantly participated in the process of state creation undertaken by military administrations. This perceived lack of involvement has resulted in a situation where the South-East has been allocated only five states, while other regions possess a minimum of six states each.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized that the five-state constraint has led to a dearth of opportunities for equal representation within the South-East. This unequal distribution has resulted in fewer governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, state assembly members, and other positions for the region.
The statement further highlighted that the creation of states and geopolitical zones was primarily orchestrated by military administrations, and the Igbo community had not played a significant role in shaping this process.
“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.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s message underscored the need for a more balanced and equitable distribution of ministerial positions and other political opportunities for the South-East region, calling for recognition of the region’s contributions and the rectification of historical imbalances.