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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the list of ambassadorial nominees submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.
The main opposition party specifically expressed concerns regarding the nomination of Mahmood Yakubu, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the PDP, this nomination reflects the values demonstrated by the Tinubu administration.
President Tinubu presented the list of ambassadorial nominees to the National Assembly on Saturday.
The list included the names of 32 additional nominees, following an initial submission of three nominees.
Among the new nominees are Mahmood Yakubu, whom many Nigerians believe manipulated the 2023 presidential election in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Reno Omokri, who is often viewed as a propagandist, Femi Fani-Kayode, and former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, along with former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, and others.
The PDP contends that the President has not chosen the most qualified individuals to represent Nigeria abroad but has instead rewarded those who have aided his ascent to the presidency.
The PDP characterizes many of the nominees as disgraced propagandists and politicians lacking integrity, who are viewed negatively by both Nigerians and the international community.
“This situation is not only a lamentable reflection on our nation's history of diplomatic representation; it is also deeply troubling and scandalous,” stated Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party’s National Publicity Secretary.
However, the party noted that most Nigerians are not entirely shocked, as this has been a recurring theme under the Tinubu administration.
“By making these nominations, the President has demonstrated to Nigerians that these are the best individuals he has to represent our country in their respective postings,” it added.
The PDP expressed alarm that it took the President so long to nominate this group of individuals, stating, “Specifically, we convey the disappointment of many discerning Nigerians regarding the nomination of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the former Chairman of INEC, whose tenure was marked by numerous contradictions, inconsistencies, and unfulfilled promises, ultimately leading to the emergence of this administration, which is faltering in various aspects of governance.
“Offering him an ambassadorial appointment at this time exemplifies a flawed reward system, which we suspect is intended to incentivize the new INEC Chairman to also conduct flawed elections in 2027, in anticipation of future rewards. This is utterly scandalous and entirely unacceptable.
“Appointing ambassadors with questionable political backgrounds not only serves as a disservice to Nigeria but also sets the stage for a diplomatic low point.”
The PDP then urged President Tinubu to promptly withdraw the list of nominees, asserting that Nigeria is endowed with capable individuals who can represent the country abroad, emphasizing that “only those with exemplary democratic credentials and high moral integrity should be entrusted with ambassadorial assignments.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the PDP reject the ambassadorial nominees?
The PDP rejected the nominees due to concerns over the qualifications of individuals like Mahmood Yakubu, who they believe does not represent the values of the Nigerian people or possess the necessary integrity for diplomatic roles.
What are the implications of the PDP's rejection?
The PDP's rejection highlights the ongoing issues within the Tinubu administration and raises questions about the selection process for diplomatic posts, potentially affecting Nigeria's international relations.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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