By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
In a recent statement on Channels Television, Chief Edwin Clark, a respected South-South leader and head of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), criticized President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing loyalty over competence in his appointments. Clark urged Tinubu to ensure that government positions are filled based on merit, rather than personal connections. “Nigeria is a nation that belongs to all of us. It does not belong to Mr. President alone,” Clark emphasized, underscoring the need for national unity and fairness in governance.
Clark also expressed concern that the president’s current approach could lead to the marginalization of qualified Nigerians from various regions, hindering the country’s progress. He warned that continuing to appoint individuals based solely on their loyalty, rather than their skills, would perpetuate Nigeria’s existing problems. Furthermore, he criticized the opposition to Tinubu’s tax reform bills by northern governors, urging a more inclusive dialogue to ensure the reforms benefit the entire nation.
Chief Clark’s call for inclusivity is an important reminder that leadership should always focus on unity, competence, and national cohesion. While it’s natural for leaders to surround themselves with trusted allies, a nation as diverse as Nigeria needs a broader, more inclusive approach to thrive. Only by ensuring that every Nigerian has an equal opportunity to rise based on their abilities, not their proximity to power, can we truly move forward as a united nation.
