Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
The Principle of Ethnic Equilibrium
Since returning to democratic rule in 1999, Nigeria’s leaders have adhered to an unwritten but universally observed “federal character” convention designed to share power among the country’s more than 250 ethnic groups. This system balancing the numerically dominant Hausa-Fulani in the north, Igbo in the southeast, and Yoruba in the southwest was intended to foster national unity and prevent any one community from monopolizing top government posts.
Tinubu’s Controversial Appointments
Critics contend that President Bola Tinubu, two years into his tenure, has upended that delicate balance. In April 2025, he filled eight of the most influential positions the heads of the Central Bank, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), the Police, the Army, Customs, Intelligence, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service with appointees exclusively from his own Yoruba ethnic group. No previous administration has ever concentrated so many key roles within a single ethnicity at this stage of governance.
Why Balance Matters
The federal character principle is more than symbolism: those eight roles collectively control Nigeria’s financial flows, security apparatus, and anti-corruption efforts. When one group dominates, it breeds suspicion among other regions and undermines trust in the system. Similar imbalances in the past have contributed to violent discord including the Biafran war and persistent north-south mistrust.
Historical Comparisons
Under President Goodluck Jonathan (2010–15), the top eight posts were split among Fulanis, Hausas, Igbos, Yorubas, and minority groups reflecting the country’s diversity. Muhammadu Buhari (2015–23), while seen as favoring northern interests, still maintained an ethnically mixed leadership. Tinubu’s 100 percent Yoruba occupancy is unprecedented and has therefore provoked alarm from northern and southeastern quarters.
Criticism and Official Rebuttal
Northern senators and governors have decried the appointments as non-inclusive and contrary to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” pledge. Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) warned that concentrating power in one group could fracture national cohesion, while analyst Isah Habibu reminded the president that Yorubas are but one segment of the federation. The presidency, however, insists constitutional requirements for regional representation have been met pointing to a broader count of ministries and boards that still include substantial northern representation.
Economic and Political Ramifications
The controversy extends beyond symbolism into policy. Northern governors have balked at new tax-revenue sharing formulas they view as favoring southern states, stalling nationwide fiscal reforms. Distrust in Abuja’s motives could hamper joint security operations against insurgents (like Boko Haram) and delay infrastructure projects crucial to national development.
The Road Ahead
Restoring confidence will require more than assurances. Political experts urge Tinubu to pair merit-based appointments with clear, transparent criteria and to avoid any perception of ethnic favoritism. Long-term equity sustained over multiple administrations may be the only way to wean Nigeria off its ethnic zero-sum mindset. With gubernatorial and legislative elections looming later this year, how the president responds to these fears could define his legacy and the nation’s fragile unity.
Read Also: The Voice of Africa is Now Inside the United Nations
