Nigerians Raise Eyebrows Over Tinubu's INEC Nominee, Amupitan - "Another Yoruba Appointment in Disguise?ÔÇØ

... Though from Kogi's North-Central zone, critics argue that Amupitan's Yoruba origin fuels ethnic bias claims in Tinubu's administration.

Concerns are mounting among Nigerians following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) - a move many say subtly extends the growing dominance of Yoruba appointments in key federal positions.

Although Amupitan hails from Kogi State, a North-Central state, Nigerians are quick to point out that he comes from the Yoruba-speaking area of Kogi, sparking conversations about ethnic favoritism in the President's choices for sensitive national roles.

According to a statement released by Tinubu's media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the nomination was presented during the National Council of State meeting on Thursday, where the council unanimously endorsed the choice.

Tinubu reportedly told the council that Amupitan's nomination was a historic one, being the first from Kogi State to be considered for the position, describing him as "apolitical and a man of integrity.ÔÇØ

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State also praised the nominee, calling him a patriot with an impeccable record. However, the unanimity at the meeting did little to quell the online outrage, as many Nigerians expressed discomfort over what they see as a pattern of appointments favouring Yoruba technocrats and elites.

Social commentators argue that while Amupitan's credentials are not in question, the symbolism of his Yoruba roots, coming at a time when regional balance in government appointments remains a heated topic, raises political sensitivity.

Tinubu is now expected to forward Amupitan's name to the Senate for confirmation, in line with constitutional provisions.

Meanwhile, public debate continues to intensify, with calls on the President to ensure that his appointments truly reflect the federal character principle and not "ethnic familiarity.ÔÇØ

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