Former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, has accused President Bola Tinubu of appointing former Lagos state aides to federal positions.
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In an interview, Odinkalu noted similarities between Tinubu’s appointments and his predecessor Muhammadu Buhari’s tendency to select former personal staff. He reminded Tinubu that Lagos is not equivalent to leading Nigeria.
Odinkalu highlighted that while Nigeria grapples with divisive issues like tribalism, the 2022 photo of Nigerian-origin UK Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch and US Trade Representative Wally Adeyemo shows meritocracy in advanced countries.
The law professor implied Tinubu’s appointments have prioritized loyalty over competence. Critics argue relying on former Lagos associates risks concentrating power among a small clique instead of reflecting Nigeria’s diversity.
Proponents counter Tinubu is picking trusted and experienced technocrats. But Odinkalu contends the concentration of former aides indicates Tinubu may be falling into questionable godfather politics as opposed to inclusive governance.
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