The South East Dynamic Youths, a group from the southeast region, has strongly criticized the Minister of Health, Idris Pate, regarding recent appointments of directors in various agencies and parastatals. In a press release issued by the group’s coordinator, Tony Obiogbolu, they have given the minister an ultimatum to reverse the appointments, as no individual from the southeast was included. The group has called upon President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter.
According to Obiogbolu, the recent appointments made by Pate intentionally excluded individuals from the South East region, despite the presence of qualified candidates from the area in all the relevant fields where appointments were made. The press release emphasized the disappointment felt by the youths, expressing their continued hope for fair treatment and a sense of inclusion in Nigeria.
Obiogbolu further stated, “Pate, in a manner that lacked all reasoning and fairness, chose to appoint directors to various agencies under his purview, deliberately disregarding deserving Igbo individuals who had exhibited outstanding academic and professional achievements in their respective fields. Regardless of their qualifications and experience, Pate excluded them simply because they were Igbo.”
The South East Dynamic Youths Movement has issued a two-week deadline for Pate to reverse this exclusionary policy or face the consequences of their organized protest. Additionally, the group has called on Tinubu to intervene in the matter, urging South East governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other party leaders in the region to take action. They have submitted petitions to key figures, including Governors Hope Uzodinma and Francis Nwifuru of Imo and Ebonyi States, Deputy National Chairman Emma Eneukwu, and National Vice Chairman Southeast Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu.