The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, has stepped forward to defend President Bola Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle, which has sparked debate over potential Federal Character violations. Critics argue that the reshuffle, announced last Wednesday, favours Ogun State disproportionately, with four ministers originating from the state.
The reshuffle led to the reassignment of ten ministers, the discharge of six, and the submission of seven new nominees for Senate confirmation. Despite criticisms, Senator Onyesoh, representing Rivers East under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has argued that while the Federal Character principle is constitutionally significant, it should not be the exclusive factor in appointing ministers and senior public officials.
In a statement released Thursday, Senator Onyesoh emphasized, “Yes, Federal Character is an important issue, and I am sure the President would not want to go against the Constitution. However, what the Constitution states is that one person per state, so, once that has been met, I am not sure there should be an issue.”
He added, “Federal Character isn’t the only requirement; we need competent people. The Constitution also empowers the President to be proactive, allowing him to bring efficient people on board to fulfill their roles effectively. Why are people so critical of this administration? It wasn’t the same for the previous administration.”
Those discharged in the recent reshuffle include Prof. Tahir Mamman (Education), Uju Kennedy Ohanenye (Women Affairs), Mohammed Gwarzo (State for Housing), Jamila Ibrahim (Youth Development), Lola Ade-John (Tourism), and the previously suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, who has since been replaced.
Senator Onyesoh’s remarks underscore a balancing act between adherence to Federal Character principles and the pursuit of a capable, effective federal cabinet, positioning the reshuffle as an effort to prioritize expertise alongside constitutional mandates.
