The senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as non-compliance with the federal character principle in political appointments.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, the lawmaker accused the President of violating the constitutional requirement for balanced representation in government appointments.

Ndume pointed to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that political appointments reflect the country’s diversity.

“The figures are there. You can look at the figures. I sent you one. I sent you figures. It’s not that I’m just making accusations. And it’s not that I’m saying, well, the president has no right to do that kind of thing.

But it’s a constitutional provision. Section 13, I mean, Section 14 (3) of the constitution is very, very clear,” he said.

The senator added that the current appointments fail to align with the federal character principle as outlined by law.

“When you look at it vis-a-vis the appointments made so far, and there are political appointments, the constitution is very clear.

It is because of avoiding such infractions that the constitution clearly states that appointments, especially political appointments, should reflect the federal character, and that is not the case here.

And all I am saying is to call the attention of Mr President to such infractions so that it can be corrected; otherwise, you know, these things can boomerang at a certain period of time”, Ndume stated.

Ndume, a senior member of the National Assembly, clarified that his comments were not meant as a personal attack on the President but rather a duty tied to his role as a lawmaker.

I know, as you rightly say, people look at me as somebody that is critical of the government. I have the right to do that in the first place. And in fact, that’s why I’m in the National Assembly in the first place.

“Collectively, we are supposed to oversight the acts of Mr President and point out some of these irregularities. That is what we swore to do. It’s not personal”, he added.

Addressing potential backlash for his remarks, Ndume remained resolute.

“Each one of us will stand before God, and God will ask him to account for what he is responsible for. Besides, we are all in this government. What will we tell our people? When you have these figures out, it is already viral, it is already in circulation.

But you know what, after this interview, those attack dogs or maga-dogs will start attacking Ndume, not the message.

“It is not about Ndume or me being a senator. As a Nigerian, I have the right to voice out all these things. Not only that, I have the right to even protest. I have the right. That is guaranteed by the constitution. But from tomorrow, those so-called Tinubu boys or people will start attacking Ndume. These are the facts”, the lawmaker said.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has faulted the claims that military generals contributed money to secure the release of retired Brig.-Gen. Mahrazu Tsiga, who was held captive for 56 days.

Reports says that the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, in a statement on Monday said the claims by retired Brig. -Gen. Ismaila Abdullahi, had contradicted the efforts of the military.

Gusau said the narratives clearly downplayed the efforts made by troops of Operation Fansan Yamma by embarking on Search and Rescue Operation to secure the release of Gen. Tsiga in addition to other non-kinetic efforts.

He said the senior officer had in a message, thanked other senior officers and civilians for their contribution to the rescue of the former Director General of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

According to the Defence spokesman, it may seem unproductive to engage with those who constantly criticise the military, especially those that have benefited from the same military.

He said it was essential to clarify the relentless efforts undertaken by the troops that facilitated General Tsiga’s release.

It is important to note that the unfortunate abduction of the former DG of NYSC occurred in the wee hours of 6 February 2025, in Tsiga, Kafur District of Bakori Local Government Area in Katsina State.

“Immediately, troops of 17 Brigade were alerted, they responded to the situation around 0300 hours the same day and in a commendable show of professionalism, swiftly went on pursuit in conjunction with the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma.

“These combined efforts led to troops combing the assailants/bandits hideouts within Jeka, Areda, and Zango, all in Kankara Local Government Area, in search of the former DG.

The operation extended to Ruwan Lafiya, Mununu, Matallawa and Bakkai in Faskari Local Government Area.

“Although no direct contact was made with the abductors, the troops successfully pressured the criminals, who abandoned rustled animals and some captives in their hasty retreat.

“The troops nevertheless sustained the pursuit of the terrorists with unwavering determination, despite facing difficulties due to challenging terrain,” he said.

The Punch Newspapers has been thrown into mourning following the death of its Kano correspondent, Mr. Ted Odogwu.

Odogwu, a seasoned journalist renowned for his dedication to truthful and investigative reporting, passed away, leaving a deep void in the media industry. His untimely demise has elicited an outpouring of grief from colleagues, friends, and members of the public who have followed his career over the years.

He died today 7th April in Lagos .

Announcing his passing, the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel described Odogwu as a respected and valuable member of the journalism community, highlighting his commitment to his profession. “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved colleague, Mr. Ted Odogwu, a dedicated correspondent of The Punch Newspapers,” the Chapel stated.

Born in Delta State, Odogwu had been stationed in Kano since 2008, serving as a correspondent for various newspapers before eventually joining The Punch. His insightful reporting and fearless pursuit of the truth earned him the admiration of readers and fellow journalists alike.

In a statement confirming the news, the Chairman of the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, Alhaji Aminu Garko, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our brother and colleague, Mr. Ted Odogwu. His contributions to journalism and our union will be greatly missed,” he said.

The Punch Newspapers, alongside Odogwu’s family and colleagues, are mourning his departure while celebrating his invaluable contributions to the field. As tributes continue to pour in, his legacy remains etched in the hearts of those who knew him, admired his work, and were impacted by his commitment to the truth.

May his family find comfort in the memories of his remarkable career, and may his legacy endure in the world of journalism.