Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South has voiced strong criticism against President Bola Tinubu’s recent cabinet reshuffle.
Abaribe accused Tinubu of showing the Southeast “renewed shege,” a term in the Igbo language that means suffering.
The senator’s remarks come in the wake of the replacement of Uju-Ken Ohanenye, the former Minister of Women Affairs, with Bianca Ojukwu as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
Abaribe’s discontent reflects a broader sentiment among many in the Southeast who feel marginalized.
“For my constituents, nothing has changed,” he stated. “They call it ‘Renewed Shege,’ not ‘Renewed Hope.’”
His criticisms are rooted in a belief that the cabinet reshuffle does not offer any meaningful improvements for the Southeast region.
Abaribe further alleged that Tinubu has violated the Nigerian Constitution by neglecting federal character principles in the reshuffled cabinet.
“The president has breached it for the last 18 months,” he claimed.
“We thought that with these changes, maybe there will be some adjustments that will also put some balm on what is going on in the minds of people from the Southeast.”
The concept of federal character is crucial in Nigeria, aimed at ensuring fair representation of different ethnic groups in government appointments.
Abaribe’s comments underline a growing frustration in the Southeast, where residents have long sought greater equity and fairness.
“I want to tell everyone that the Igbos want fairness and equity, which are in the constitution,” he emphasized.
“Treat us as you are treating everybody else.”
The recent cabinet reshuffle has sparked widespread discussion among political analysts and commentators.
Many view it as an attempt by Tinubu to rejuvenate his administration after facing various criticisms.
However, the choice of appointments has raised eyebrows, particularly among lawmakers from the Southeast.
This region has historically felt sidelined in national politics.
With a population rich in cultural diversity and economic potential, many believe that their representation in government should reflect their significance.
The Southeast has also been at the forefront of calls for justice and equity in the political landscape.
The region has a unique history, having experienced civil unrest and conflict, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War.