The People's Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply criticised the newly submitted list of ambassadorial nominees from President Bola Tinubu, describing it as “scandalous” and reflective of the administration’s values.
In a statement issued on Saturday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the opposition party alleged that several nominees included in the list are individuals viewed negatively by Nigerians and the international community.
The PDP claimed the list features “disgraced propagandists,” “characterless politicians,” and public officials with “integrity deficits.”
The party said many Nigerians were “appalled” by the nominations, though not surprised, asserting that the choices mirror what it described as the administration’s disposition.
According to the PDP, ambassadorial nominees inevitably reflect the judgment and values of the President who selects them.
“It took the president almost three years to produce this list, which speaks to the paucity of excellent people within his reach,” the statement read.
A particularly stinging criticism was directed at the nomination of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the immediate past chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The PDP accused Yakubu of presiding over an election administration marked by “double-speaks, flip-flops, and undelivered promises,” arguing that rewarding him with an ambassadorial posting sets a troubling precedent ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party further warned that sending diplomats with what it termed “tainted political profiles” could harm Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
The PDP concluded by demanding that President Tinubu withdraw the list and replace it with nominees who possess “stellar democratic credentials” and “high moral standing.”
The presidency has not yet responded to the PDP’s allegations.
