Tinubu has approved the immediate retirement of all Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police, Advisers, Comptroller-General of Customs from Service as well as their replacements with immediate effect. The newly appointed Officers, representing various geopolitical zones, are:

1. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (North-East) – National Security Adviser
2. Maj. Gen. C.G Musa (North-West) – Chief of Defence Staff
3. Maj. Gen. T. A Lagbaja (North-Central) – Chief of Army Staff
4. Rear Admiral E. A Ogalla (South-South) – Chief of Naval Staff
5. AVM H.B Abubakar (North-East) – Chief of Air Staff
6. DIG Kayode Egbetokun (South-West) – Acting Inspector-General of Police
7. Maj. Gen. EPA Undiandeye (North-Central) – Chief of Defense Intelligence
8. Col. Adebisi Onasanya (South-West) – Brigade of Guards Commander
9. Lt. Col. Moshood Abiodun Yusuf (South-West) – 7 Guards Battalion, Asokoro, Abuja
10. Lt. Col. Auwalu Baba Inuwa (North-Central) – 177 Guards Battalion, Keffi, Nasarawa State
11. Lt. Col. Mohammed J. Abdulkarim (North-Central) – 102 Guards Battalion, Suleja, Niger
12. Lt. Col. Olumide A. Akingbesote (North-Central) – 176 Guards Battalion, Gwagwalada, Abuja
13. Maj. Isa Farouk Audu (North-Central) – Commanding Officer State House Artillery
14. Capt. Kazeem Olalekan Sunmonu (South-West) – Second-in-Command, State House Artillery
15. Maj. Kamaru Koyejo Hamzat (North-Central) – Commanding Officer, State House Military Intelligence
16. Maj. TS Adeola (South-West) – Commanding Officer, State House Armament
17. Lt. A. Aminu (North-Central) – Second-in-Command, State House Armament
18. Hadiza Bala Usman (North-Central) – Special Adviser, Policy Coordination
19. Hannatu Musa Musawa (North-Central) – Special Adviser, Culture and Entertainment Economy
20. Sen. Abdullahi Abubakar Gumel (North-West) – Senior Special Assistant, National Assembly Matters (Senate)
21. Hon. (Barr) Olarewaju Kunle Ibrahim (South-West) – Senior Special Assistant, National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives)
22. Adeniyi Bashir Adewale (South-West) – Ag. Comptroller General of Customs

The appointments have been met with mixed reactions, with some expressing concern about the lack of representation from the Igbo people. The Igbo people are the third-largest ethnic group in Nigeria, but they are not represented in any of the top positions in the new government. This has led to accusations of marginalization and discrimination against the Igbo people.

The government has defended the appointments, saying that they were made on merit and that the best people for the job were chosen. However, the absence of Igbo representation in such significant positions has raised questions about the government’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness.

The absence of Igbo representation in the newly appointed positions further reinforces the concerns of marginalization against the Igbo people. The Igbo community, being the third-largest ethnic group in Nigeria, deserves adequate representation at all levels of government to ensure inclusivity and fair decision-making processes.

The lack of Igbo appointees in top government positions raises questions about the opportunities available to the Igbo people to contribute their expertise and perspectives in shaping the nation’s policies and direction. It sends a message that their voices may not be adequately heard or valued in the decision-making processes that affect their lives and the development of their communities.

This issue of underrepresentation is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader pattern of marginalization that the Igbo people have faced throughout history. From economic discrimination to political exclusion and infrastructure neglect, the Igbo community has often found itself on the sidelines, struggling to access the same opportunities and resources as other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

Economically, despite the significant contributions of Igbo traders and entrepreneurs to Nigeria’s economy, they have frequently encountered barriers and discriminatory practices. Their businesses have been unfairly targeted, impeding their growth and limiting their potential for success. This marginalization in the economic sphere hinders the socio-economic progress of the Igbo community and perpetuates existing inequalities.

A classic Example is the Allen Onyema, CEO of Air Peace. In a recent interview he granted, Onyema shed light on the challenges Air Peace faced in obtaining permits to operate flights to London. He suggested that the Nigerian government intentionally obstructed the process, hinting at the influence of tribal biases in their actions.

Politically, the Igbo people have also experienced marginalization, particularly during periods of military rule in Nigeria. They have been disproportionately targeted and excluded from positions of power and influence, limiting their ability to advocate for their interests and contribute to the formulation of policies that address the unique needs of their community.

Moreover, the neglect of Igbo-majority areas in infrastructure development further exacerbates their marginalization. Many Igbo communities have been deprived of basic amenities such as good roads, adequate healthcare facilities, and quality educational institutions. This lack of investment perpetuates a cycle of underdevelopment, hindering the social and economic progress of the Igbo people and contributing to their marginalization.

Culturally, the rich heritage and traditions of the Igbo people have often been overlooked or undervalued in the national narrative. Igbo language, customs, and traditions have not received the recognition and support they deserve, leading to a sense of cultural marginalization and erasure. Preserving and celebrating the diverse cultural identities of all ethnic groups in Nigeria is vital for fostering a truly inclusive society.

To address these issues of marginalization, it is crucial for the government to prioritize inclusivity, equal representation, and targeted development initiatives. Meritocracy and equal opportunities should guide the selection process for key positions in government, ensuring that individuals from all ethnic backgrounds, including the Igbo people, have an equitable chance to serve and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Furthermore, proactive measures such as affirmative action policies can help bridge the existing gaps and promote the inclusion of marginalized communities in decision-making processes. By implementing policies that promote equal opportunities and address historical injustices, the government can create a more inclusive society that harnesses the talents and potential of all its citizens.

Education and awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in challenging stereotypes and prejudices, including the perception of “Igbophobia.” Promoting understanding, tolerance, and respect for all ethnic groups can help break down barriers and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among Nigerians. It is through collective efforts and a commitment to justice and equality that Nigeria can overcome the deep-rooted prejudices and systemic marginalization faced by the Igbo people and other marginalized communities.

In conclusion, the lack of Igbo representation in the newly appointed positions underscores the ongoing issue of marginalization against the Igbo people in Nigeria. This exclusion is not limited to the lack of representation at the top echelons of government but extends to various aspects of socio-economic, political, and cultural life. To build a truly inclusive society, it is

To build a truly inclusive society, it is imperative for the Nigerian government and society as a whole to take concrete steps towards addressing the marginalization of the Igbo people. Here are some key actions that can be taken:

1. Equal Representation: The government should actively strive to ensure equal representation of all ethnic groups, including the Igbo people, in all levels of government. This can be achieved through deliberate policies that promote diversity and inclusivity in appointments, both at the federal and state levels.
2. Inclusive Policies: The government should formulate and implement policies that address the specific needs and challenges faced by the Igbo community. This includes targeted development initiatives, such as infrastructure projects, healthcare programs, and educational reforms, that focus on Igbo-majority areas and help bridge the existing gaps in socio-economic development.
3. Economic Empowerment: Efforts should be made to promote economic empowerment and entrepreneurship within the Igbo community. This can be achieved through the provision of access to finance, business development programs, and support for Igbo-owned businesses. Creating an enabling environment for economic growth and reducing discriminatory practices will contribute to the socio-economic advancement of the Igbo people.
4. Social Integration and Cultural Preservation: Recognizing and celebrating the cultural heritage of the Igbo people is crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and promoting social cohesion. The government should support initiatives that preserve and promote Igbo language, traditions, and customs. Additionally, promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding among different ethnic groups in Nigeria can help break down stereotypes and promote social integration.
5. Education and Awareness: Education plays a vital role in combating stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination. Incorporating accurate and inclusive history, as well as cultural education, in the national curriculum can help foster understanding and respect for the Igbo people and their contributions to the nation. Sensitization campaigns and awareness programs can also help challenge negative narratives and promote positive perceptions of the Igbo community.
6. Dialogue and Reconciliation: Meaningful dialogue and reconciliation efforts are essential for addressing historical grievances and fostering unity among all ethnic groups in Nigeria. Open and constructive conversations that involve representatives from the Igbo community can help bridge divides, build trust, and lay the foundation for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

It is essential for the Nigerian government, civil society organizations, and citizens to collectively work towards creating a society where every ethnic group, including the Igbo people, feels valued, represented, and empowered. Embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity is not only a matter of justice and equality but also crucial for the nation’s overall stability, progress, and prosperity.