In an interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm from 33:06, Kenneth Okonkwo raised concerns over recent ministerial appointments under President Bola Tinubu, accusing the administration of prioritizing political influence over public welfare. Okonkwo argued that the selection of ministers appears to be strategically aimed at securing electoral ground rather than addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues.
He highlighted the appointment of Nyesom Wike, a former PDP governor, as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, to strengthen the administration’s influence in Rivers State. Additionally, he cited the recent appointment of Bianca Ojukwu during the Cabinet Reshuffle, as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs as a tactic to gain traction in the South East, where her presence might attract loyalty due to her affiliation with APGA.
According to Okonkwo, these moves reflect a pattern of “political self-aggrandizement,” as he put it, suggesting that the government’s focus remains on consolidating political power rather than enhancing the citizens’ welfare.
“The reasons for the appointments is not for the welfare of the people. The reason first and foremost is Political self aggrandizement. The appointment of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike to capture Rivers State. Bianca Ojukwu from APGA to see whether he can make an inroad to South East. Bianca Ojukwu is Assistant to a Minister, not a Minister. She’s a minister of State for Foreign Affairs, we have a minister of foreign affairs”