The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly criticised the new list of ambassadorial nominees sent to the Senate by President Bola Tinubu. Obi said that several of the names on the list are surprising, disappointing, and not suitable to represent Nigeria in foreign countries.
In a post on his X account, Obi expressed deep concern about the quality of the nominees.
He wrote:
“Some of the names being nominated to represent us abroad are shocking. But when leadership allows mediocrity, corruption, and impunity to grow, we should not be surprised by the choices.”
Obi also drew attention to the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians. He compared the difficult conditions citizens face with what he described as the carefree lifestyle of the political elite. According to him, while Nigerians face insecurity, hunger, and poverty, those in government appear disconnected from the reality on the ground.
He noted that:
Nigerians are being killed, yet leaders are busy attending dinners.
Schoolchildren are kidnapped, but politicians are celebrating and dancing.
Families cannot afford food, while those in power welcome defectors and exchange gifts as if the country is not going through serious hardship.
Obi said that this behaviour does not reflect responsible leadership and does not show the concern expected from those in public office.
His comments echo growing public frustration over the president’s choices. Many Nigerians have questioned the qualifications and credibility of some of the nominees.
Joe Keshi, a former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also criticised the list. He argued that certain individuals “should have no business being in the diplomatic service.”
However, the Presidency dismissed these complaints.
Ademola Oshodi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, defended the nominations. He said President Tinubu selected people he believes can advance Nigeria’s interests and has the right to appoint anyone he considers fit.
On November 29, Tinubu submitted 32 additional names to the Senate, following an earlier list of three nominees. Some of the nominees include Reno Omokri, Mahmood Yakubu, Femi Fani-Kayode, Okezie Ikpeazu, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Jimoh Ibrahim, Erelu Angela Adebayo, and Grace Bent.
All nominees are awaiting Senate confirmation.
