OPINION: Marginalised and Overlooked In Federal Appointments: Why Always Cross River?
By Peter Iyali
The recent appointment of governing council chairmen and members for federal tertiary institutions by President Bola Tinubu has left Cross Riverians yet with another bitter taste. Does the President and his government truly recognise Cross River as an APC state? Has the state or its leadership offended the President so bad to deserve this snub and marginalisation?
Honestly, it is unbelievably disheartening and deeply disappointing at the way the Tinubu's administration has treated Cross River State in terms of federal appointments. Despite the state's unwavering support for the President and the APC, with a significant number of votes cast in their favour at all levels in the last election, the state has been met with utter disregard and disrespect.
In a recent article, I urged the APC to learn from the PDP's approach to appointments, emphasizing the need for balance, justice, harmony and unity within the party.
Unfortunately, the President's actions have only served to further divide and marginalise our state. For a state that proudly claims to be the only APC controlled state in the South-South region, what's happening under this administration is frustrating.
It is inconceivable that President Tinubu would suggest that there are no suitable Cross Riverians to hold chairmanship positions in tertiary institutions. Our state boasts high human capital, and it is a travesty that we cannot even count up to ten appointments out of 555.
Under the previous administration of President Mohamadu Buhari, despite being in opposition, the state had three governing council chairmen heading tertiary institutions with many members. In stark contrast, the recent appointments have seen a paltry six individuals from Cross River selected as members, out of a total of 555 chairmen and council members. This is a glaring injustice, especially when considering that some states have secured over 20 slots.
A more inclusive approach to appointments would have seen the President take a more representative selection from each state. This would have ensured a more balanced distribution of positions and recognized the contributions of all states, including Cross River.
For instance, if the President had taken just 10 names from each state including the federal capital territory where each is allowed to produce at least one Chairman, that would have accounted for 370 appointments, leaving him with 185 to prioritize his preferred states. Instead, Cross River has been relegated to the fringes, with our Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, being disrespected in the process. This is unacceptable and demands an urgent review of the appointment list.
The lack of representation and recognition for Cross River State is a concerning trend that erodes trust and loyalty in the party. It is essential to address this imbalance and give the state its due recognition. The administration must prioritize inclusivity and ensure that all states feel valued and represented in federal appointments.
Cross River State deserves better, and its people demand more inclusive representation.
A stitch in time saves nine!
Inyali Peter, Ph.D, is based in Abuja
