The North Central People’s Forum (NCPF) has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing George Akume, one of their own, as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). However, they emphasize that this appointment alone is insufficient to pacify their demands.
Acknowledging the significance of the SGF position, the North Central asserts that their substantial support for President Tinubu in the last election warrants further representation. They call for a North Central candidate to assume the office of the deputy Senate President, as well as the positions of the FCT minister and a ministerial slot for someone from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), considering that the constitution treats the FCT as a state.
In an interview with LEADERSHIP Weekend, the National Publicity Secretary of the NCPF, Rt Hon Audu Sule, speaks on behalf of the North Central people, representing Abuja, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Niger, Nasarawa, and Kwara State. Sule emphasizes the North Central’s familiarity with Abuja and advocates for the appointment of an FCT minister from their region.
Expressing their gratitude for Senator George Akume’s appointment as SGF, Sule emphasizes that more needs to be done to address their region’s concerns. The North Central delivered a significant number of votes to the APC in the last election, leading in all states except Plateau and the FCT, which went to the Labour Party.
The North Central demands the office of the deputy Senate President, a position they have not occupied in the past. They draw attention to previous administrations where the North East held the Senate Presidency and the SGF positions. Consequently, they seek equitable representation and believe that granting the North Central the deputy Senate President’s office would be fitting, considering their significant support for the APC in five out of seven states.
Additionally, the NCPF calls for the consideration of a North Central candidate for the office of the FCT minister, as they believe the people of the region possess a deep understanding of the area. They argue that the FCT should also receive a ministerial appointment to ensure effective representation.
While acknowledging George Akume’s appointment as SGF and expressing appreciation to President Tinubu, Sule emphasizes that the North Central expects more comprehensive representation to address the aspirations and concerns of their region.