A group in the All Progressives Congress (APC) known as APC Renewed Hope Ambassadors have vowed to resist the exclusion of Hon James Faleke and Barr. Simon Lalong from the presidential appointments committee.
The committee’s creation was recently announced by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The committee would be co-chaired by a former governor of Kebbi state, Atiku Bagudu, and a former governor of Jigawa state, Abubakar Badaru.
Bagudu and Badaru have already been nominated as ministers by President Bola Tinubu.
The APC group said the decision to sideline Faleke, a member of the House of Representatives, and Lalong, the immediate past governor of Plateau state, from the committee is unacceptable.
In a statement circulated to journalists, the group said:
”Rt Hon James Faleke and Barr. Simon Lalong was the engine room and driving force behind the formidable presidential campaign machine that led President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to victory.
”Their dedication extended beyond the campaign’s core objectives, as they tirelessly worked to incorporate a diverse range of voices into the narrative.
”They ensured representation from Community Development Associations, Town Hall Meetings, Ethnic Nationality Groups, and grassroots organizations.”
The group argued that their exclusion contradicts the principles of inclusivity and representation of the ruling party championed during its campaigns.
While acknowledging the complexities of political appointments, the group stressed that no excuse is tenable for the committee’s omission of Faleke and Lalong.
They issued a one-week ultimatum for the Tinubu-led government to address the situation immediately.
”Our message is clear: we demand a reassessment of this situation. We implore the presidency to reconsider its decision and include these two individuals who have shown unparalleled dedication to the ideals of progressive governance.
”Recognising their efforts will not only be a tribute to their hard work. Still, it will also foster a sense of belonging among the various support groups and individuals who rallied behind their leadership,” the group noted.