A pro-Bola Ahmed Tinubu support group, South-East Progressives Front, has criticized the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, for opposing the appointment of Dr. Ben Nwoye as Chief of Staff to the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Ali Burkar Dalori.
Nnaji, in a personally signed letter, expressed strong opposition to Nwoye’s appointment and demanded that it be withdrawn.
In a statement released on Thursday, Dr. Donald Otuonye, the National Coordinator of Southeast Progressives Front, a grassroots organization that rallied support for the Tinubu presidency across the five states in Southeast, expressed disbelief that a member of the Federal cabinet would interfere in the selection of an aide by a party official.
He stated that Nnaji’s actions indicated a lack of focus and the necessary initiative to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.
Otuoye criticized Nnaji’s involvement in party matters, stating, “While other ministers are actively achieving their mandates, the science and technology minister is preoccupied with the appointment of the chief of staff to the deputy national chairman of our party.”
He further questioned Nnaji’s commitment to the party by asking, “How many votes did President Bola Ahmed Tinubu secure in his ward, given Nnaji’s claim of working for the party during the election?”
He also accused Nnaji of supporting the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and lacking the moral standing to criticize others, particularly in light of the fact that Nnaji’s brother is a serving member of the House of Representatives in the PDP.
Defending Dr. Ben Nwoye, Otuonye highlighted Nwoye’s significant contributions to the party, including serving as the pioneer chairman of the party in Enugu State and utilizing his personal resources for the party’s growth when many were hesitant to join. Otuonye also noted Nwoye’s substantial support for the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Organization, emphasizing his personal sacrifices and commitment to the party.
Commending the APC Deputy National Chairman, Dalori, for recognizing Nwoye’s dedication to the party, Otuonye advised Nnaji to concentrate on his ministerial responsibilities or resign if he cannot contribute effectively to the success of the Tinubu administration.
Otuonye concluded by stressing that the President Tinubu administration is eager to implement vital reforms in the country and cautioned against distractions. He affirmed that performance reviews will be conducted periodically, signaling accountability for all cabinet members.
