*OPINION*
By Dr. Ugoji Egbujo
October 26, 2024
President Tinubu’s recent appointments have raised eyebrows, with many questioning his motives. Is he prioritizing meritocracy or ethnic domination? The answer lies in the numbers.
*YORUBA DOMINANCE*
– Inspector General of Police: Yoruba
– EFCC Chairman: Yoruba
– Head of DSS: Yoruba
– Attorney General: Yoruba
– Chief Justice of the Federation: Yoruba
– CBN Governor: Yoruba
– Minister of Finance: Yoruba
– Minister of Blue Economy: Yoruba
– Minister of Digital Economy: Yoruba
– Minister of Trade, Industries, and Investment: Yoruba
– Head of Bank of Industry: Yoruba
– National Social Insurance Trust Fund: Yoruba
– Coordinating Minister of the Economy: Yoruba
– Minister of Solid Minerals: Yoruba
– Minister of Petroleum: Yoruba
– Army Chief: Yoruba
– Police Chief: Yoruba
– Customs Chief: Yoruba
– Immigration Chief: Yoruba
– DSS Chief: Yoruba
*A YORUBA AFFAIR?*
Tinubu’s devotion to ethnic patriotism is staggering. The Yoruba are intelligent and sophisticated, but this level of domination is unprecedented. Even military juntas didn’t come close to this level of ethnic hegemony.
*NATIONAL UNITY AT RISK*
Tinubu’s approach is counterintuitive. National unity should be a priority, especially given the country’s history of ethnic division. This level of tribalism will only complicate the distrust and perception of ethnic domination.
*A SHARED SENSE OF BELONGING*
Tinubu should know that a shared sense of belonging across ethnic divides is crucial for unity and peace. His actions are a far cry from the inclusivity and meritocracy Nigeria needs.
*YORUBA EMBARRASSED*
Many Yoruba are embarrassed by Tinubu’s antics, which go against their welcoming and empathetic nature. They are self-assured and effervescent, with a cultural emphasis on harmony and freedom.
*TINUBU’S LEGACY*
Will Tinubu’s legacy be defined by ethnic domination or national unity? Only time will tell. One thing is certain, however: Nigeria deserves better.
