Amanze Chinonye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticised President Tinubu’s new list of ambassadorial nominees, calling it “scandalous, reprehensible, and reflective of the President’s values.”
In a statement issued on Friday and obtained by Prime Business Africa, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said many of those nominated are individuals with “integrity deficits,” including “disgraced propagandists, characterless politicians and public officials” whose reputations, the party claimed, are viewed negatively both within Nigeria and internationally.
The opposition party said the widespread public disapproval trailing the list was not surprising, arguing that it aligns with what it described as the Tinubu administration’s pattern of controversial appointments.
Join our WhatsApp Channel“A nominee is a clear and direct reflection of the values and estimation of the nominator. By making these nominations, the President has shown Nigerians that these are the best people he has to represent our country,” the party stated.
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Background to the controversy
President Tinubu’s ambassadorial list has been eagerly anticipated, given Nigeria’s prolonged absence of substantive envoys in many countries. Since the President recalled all Nigerian ambassadors in September 2023, most diplomatic missions have been led by acting heads, a situation analysts say has weakened the country’s international presence.
The delay in releasing a fresh list coming nearly three years into the administration has been attributed to internal political bargaining, regional balancing concerns, and extensive security vetting. Nigeria’s ambassadorial positions have historically been split between career diplomats and political appointees, a practice criticised for undermining diplomatic professionalism.
The latest nominations, however, have sparked intensified scrutiny because they come at a time when debates over Nigeria’s democratic credibility remain sensitive. The inclusion of former INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has drawn particular attention given the unresolved controversies surrounding the conduct of the 2023 general elections that brought the Tinubu administration to power.
PDP questions Yakubu’s nomination
The PDP described Yakubu’s nomination as the most troubling on the list, accusing him of presiding over an electoral process marked by “double-speaks, flip-flops and undelivered promises.” The party argued that offering him an ambassadorial position serves as a “skewed reward system” and suggested it could be an incentive to the new INEC chairman ahead of the 2027 elections.
“To offer him an ambassadorial appointment at a time like this is scandalous and completely unacceptable,” it said.
Warning on Nigeria’s global image
The opposition further warned that the integrity of ambassadors directly affects how their home country is perceived. It argued that deploying diplomats with “tainted political profiles” risks damaging Nigeria’s international reputation and could result in what it termed a “diplomatic all-time low.”
“It is a great disservice to Nigeria to send representatives who cannot command global respect,” the party added.
The PDP has demanded that President Tinubu withdraw the list and forward fresh nominees with “stellar democratic credentials and high moral standing.”
The presidency has yet to respond to the statement.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
