ENOUGH OF THE EXCLUSION: ENUGU NORTH SENATORIAL ZONE DEMANDS MINISTERIAL REPRESENTATION
By Our Correspondent
Nsukka, Enugu State.
A coalition of citizens under the umbrella of Concerned Citizens of Enugu North Senatorial Zone has decried what they described as a longstanding political injustice, the continuous exclusion of Enugu North from ministerial appointments since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
In a statement signed by Comrade Ikechukwu Okenyi, ANIPR, MNUJ, on behalf of the group, the citizens said that for 26 years, Enugu North has not produced a single Federal Minister, even as Enugu East and Enugu West Senatorial Zones have continued to enjoy repeated representation in the Federal Executive Council.
“It is shocking and unacceptable that an entire senatorial district has been sidelined for over two decades despite its immense contributions to the development of Enugu State and Nigeria,” the statement said.
Unequal Representation,
Records show that since 1999, federal ministerial appointments from Enugu State have gone to Frank Nweke Jr., Mrs. Fidelia Njeze, Prof. Bart Nnaji, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, Geoffrey Onyeama, and Uche Nnaji — all from Enugu East and Enugu West Senatorial Zones.
“This glaring imbalance is disheartening,” the group noted, adding that “Enugu North, with its intellectual capital, professionals, and administrators, deserves to be part of national decision-making.”
Reasons for Inclusion:
The group listed four key reasons for demanding fair representation:
- Equity and Justice:
The citizens said it was morally indefensible for one senatorial zone to be perpetually excluded in a democracy built on fairness. - Competence and Capacity:
They pointed out that Enugu North is home to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and a reservoir of skilled and patriotic citizens who can serve with excellence. - Peace and Unity:
They warned that political exclusion could breed resentment and urged for inclusivity to strengthen state unity. - Zoning Principle:
They called on leaders to uphold the zoning convention that promotes balanced power-sharing and harmony across the state.
Call to Leaders,
The group appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, and political stakeholders to ensure that the next ministerial appointment from Enugu State is given to Enugu North.
“This is not a cry for charity,” the statement emphasized. “It is a demand for justice, fairness, and recognition of a loyal and peaceful people who have contributed immensely to national development.”
Conclusion,
“Enugu North has waited patiently for 26 years,” the statement concluded. “The time for justice is now. Continued exclusion undermines democracy and fairness. Justice delayed must no longer be justice denied.”
Signed:
Comrade Ikechukwu Okenyi, ANIPR, MNUJ
For and on behalf of the Concerned Citizens of Enugu North Senatorial Zone
📞 08159956623.
