Says Yakubu’s Appointment Undermines INEC’s Credibility
HURIWA Describes Nomination of Sycophants as Unfortunate and Disgraceful
The African Democratic Congress has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s latest list of ambassadorial nominees, describing the selections as a political settlement rather than a merit-based exercise. The party released its position on Tuesday after the Presidency forwarded a new batch of nominees to the Senate for screening.
According to the ADC, the nominations send the wrong signal about the standards expected for Nigeria’s foreign service. The party argued that ambassadorial roles require competence, continuity and a professional understanding of diplomacy. It claimed that several individuals on the list were rewarded for political loyalty rather than expertise, which it warned would weaken Nigeria’s external representation at a time of significant global and regional challenges.
The ADC also raised objections to the inclusion of former National Youth Service Corps Director General, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim Yakubu (retired). The party stated that appointing Yakubu at a time when the credibility of electoral institutions is under public scrutiny may aggravate doubts surrounding the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission. The statement noted that recent controversies around elections demand careful appointments that reinforce public trust rather than diminish it.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria issued a separate statement criticizing the nominations. The group said the list reflected what it called a growing pattern of rewarding sycophancy in public appointments. It described the development as unfortunate and disgraceful, insisting that Nigeria’s diplomatic missions deserve individuals with proven competence, strong ethical standards and an understanding of national priorities.
HURIWA added that Nigeria’s foreign relations require stable leadership anchored on professionalism. The group urged the Senate to scrutinize the nominations thoroughly and ensure that only individuals with clear qualifications are confirmed.
Both organizations called on the Federal Government to prioritize national interest above political considerations, arguing that ambassadorial postings should strengthen Nigeria’s international standing rather than reflect internal party arrangements.
