The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate withdrawal of the ambassadorial list submitted to the Senate by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as populated by individuals with “integrity deficits” and “notable anti-democratic records.”
In a statement issued on Saturday, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the President should forward a fresh list consisting only of Nigerians with unquestionable character, strong democratic values, and the capacity to command global respect.
“This list contains names of disgraced propagandists, characterless politicians, and public officials who are widely perceived negatively by Nigerians and the global community,” Ememobong said.
“It is a sad commentary on our diplomatic history, very reprehensible and scandalous.”
He argued that Nigerians were shocked, though not surprised, by the nominations, saying the choices reflect the values of the administration.
“A nominee is a direct reflection of the nominator. By presenting this list, the President is telling Nigerians that these are the best he can offer.”
“The fact that it took almost three years to compile it shows the paucity of excellent people within his reach,” the statement added.
The PDP expressed deep concern over the inclusion of former INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, describing his nomination as “scandalous.”
According to the statement, Yakubu’s time at INEC was marked by “double-speaks, flip-flops, undelivered promises,” which the PDP claims contributed to the emergence of the current administration.
“To offer him an ambassadorial posting at this time is a classic example of a skewed reward system,” Ememobong said.
The party further alleged that the appointment may be an attempt to induce the incumbent INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, to compromise the 2027 elections.
The PDP warned that sending ambassadors “with tainted political profiles” would damage Nigeria’s global reputation.
“The respect a country gets from others is tied to the integrity of its President and its diplomats.
“Appointing individuals with questionable public perception is a great disservice to Nigeria and a recipe for diplomatic embarrassment,” the statement noted.
PDP insisted that President Tinubu must withdraw the list and present new nominees who possess “stellar democratic credentials and high moral standing.”
