₦airaland Forum

Nigerians Urge President Tinubu to Reshuffle Appointments Over Tribal Imbalance — Echoes of Buhari's Midterm Adjustment Resurface

Abuja, Nigeria — Growing voices across Nigeria are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate a major reshuffle of political appointments amid concerns of tribal imbalance and perceived marginalization of several regions. The demand echoes a similar moment in recent Nigerian political history when former President Muhammadu Buhari, in response to mounting pressure, restructured his cabinet to address national inclusivity.

Critics argue that the overwhelming representation of Yoruba individuals in high-level government roles, while leaving other ethnic groups with relatively minor positions, undermines the spirit of national unity and fairness that the nation so desperately needs. With many alleging that his choices have raised concerns about tribal favoritism.

The controversy erupted shortly after the announcement of key appointments, with many observers pointing to the predominance of Yoruba names in leadership positions across critical ministries. While the appointments were hailed by some as a recognition of the Yoruba people’s political influence, a growing number of Nigerians from various ethnic backgrounds have voiced concerns that the appointments reflect a lack of balance and fair representation.

One of the central criticisms is that Nigerians from other ethnic groups, such as the Igbo, Hausa, and others, have been largely sidelined in favor of the president's tribe. Some are calling for a reshuffle to ensure that all regions and tribes are adequately represented in the federal government, as this would demonstrate President Tinubu’s commitment to his campaign promise of inclusivity and national cohesion.

Civil society organizations, opposition leaders, and traditional rulers have all raised alarm over what they describe as a growing sense of exclusion among certain ethnic and geopolitical zones. Critics point out that key government positions, including those related to security, finance, and infrastructure, appear to be concentrated within a narrow regional spectrum—fueling resentment and threatening national unity.

“President Tinubu campaigned on a promise of inclusivity and national renewal,” said Hajiya Bilkisu Mohammed, spokesperson for the Coalition for Equitable Governance. “It is now time for him to demonstrate that commitment by ensuring all regions of Nigeria see themselves represented at the highest levels of government.”

The current administration, which came into power amid high expectations for economic reform and national reconciliation, has faced criticism for failing to reflect Nigeria’s complex diversity in its federal appointments. Analysts warn that without corrective action, such imbalances could erode public trust and deepen existing fault lines.

In comparison, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who faced similar backlash midway through his first term, made the strategic decision to reshuffle his cabinet and key appointments in 2018. Though initially criticized for favoritism, Buhari's midterm adjustment helped to ease tensions and restore confidence in his administration's commitment to unity.

Political observers argue that Tinubu could benefit from following a similar path, using a reshuffle not only to improve ethnic balance but also to inject new energy and expertise into his team as the administration faces pressing economic and security challenges.

With the country facing rising inflation, youth unemployment, and security threats across multiple zones, many Nigerians believe that an inclusive and balanced leadership structure is not just desirable—it is essential for national stability.

As pressure mounts, all eyes remain on President Tinubu to see whether he will seize this moment to unify the nation through bold, inclusive leadership.

Which Nigerians? Or the sore election losers who want to reap where they did not sow

The president will never do that

What Nigerians? Leave me out of it abeg!

helinues:
Which Nigerians? Or the sore election losers who want to reap where they did not sow

Stop Making noise. You are asking Op nonsense silly question.

Are Northerners and south south now sore loser or is sowore also sore loser.

Think before talking and stop displaying your ignorance.

Nairaland kid like you

ch214:
Stop Making noise. You are asking Op nonsense silly question.

Are Northerners and south south now sore loser or is sowore also sore loser.

Think before talking and stop displaying your ignorance.

Nairaland kid like you

The issue with some of you is, you like crying on behalf of others.

Are you going through hardship, poverty hence crying loudly like this

saintopus:
The president will never do that

If former president Muhammad Buhari reshuffle his appointments after criticism likewise tinubu will also reshuffle his appointments of Yorubas majority appointed.

ch214:
If former president Muhammad Buhari reshuffle his appointments after criticism likewise tinubu will also reshuffle his appointments of Yorubas majority appointed.

If he reshuffled, then the few non- Yorubas, will lose their job to the already Yoruba laden cabinets

ch214:
If former president Muhammad Buhari reshuffle his appointments after criticism likewise tinubu will also reshuffle his appointments of Yorubas majority appointed.

Give it up. Stop getting yourself banned

helinues:
Give it up. Stop getting yourself banned

You are the one to give it up or you will be getting yourself banned

saintopus:
If he reshuffled, then the few non- Yorubas, will lose their job to the already Yoruba laden cabinets

That is a lie.
When former president of Nigeria Muhammad Buhari reshuffle his appointments then it was the northerners which was majority that lose their jobs to minority non- northerners and the same will happen to Yorubas who are majority in appointment of tinubu after tinubu reshuffle his appointments soon.