Rita Odafe
Mike Ozekhome
Human rights activist Mike Ozekhome (SAN) has called out the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, regarding the new president, Bola Tinubu’s choice of mainly Yoruba individuals for prominent government roles. Ozekhome shared his insights during a human rights symposium organized by the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Abuja on December 11.
Ozekhome expressed that, while there are valid concerns about Tinubu’s appointments favoring the Yoruba community, it reflects a pattern set during Buhari’s presidency, which saw a significant focus on northern representation. He highlighted that for eight years, Buhari primarily filled positions with individuals from the north and the Muslim community.
“As I hear complaints from the northern region about Tinubu’s ‘Yorubanisation’ of leadership, I must ask – where were you when Buhari predominately filled roles with northerners? For years, it seemed to be accepted without protest,” he said.
Mike shared his frustration over the situation, noting how he had expressed his concerns in numerous writings and even published a book titled ‘How Buhari Mismanaged Nigeria,’ which he presented on his 67th birthday. He lamented that some supporters dismissed the issues as part of their loyalty to Buhari, revealing a troubling mindset where group affiliation took precedence over effective governance.
Ozekhome concluded by emphasizing that such divisions do not benefit the nation, warning that a lack of accountability could hinder Nigeria’s growth and unity.
