The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint a southerner as the next chairperson of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Northerners have taken turns to occupy the position since its inception.

This is contained in a statement signed by the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Mr Emmanuel Onwubiko, on Monday.

HURIWA expressed concern over the consistent appointment of individuals from the North as EFCC chairs since the agency’s establishment.

This trend, the organisation noted, had led to the perception that the position is micro-zoned to the North, depriving equally competent individuals of the South of the opportunity to contribute to the fight against corruption.

The rights group described Mr Tinubu as a prominent leader known for his commitment to fairness, justice, and equity. It urged him to exhibit the same by appointing a candidate from the South as the next EFCC boss.

“Such a decision would send a powerful message of unity and inclusivity, fostering a harmonious and balanced Nigeria. We firmly believe that a candidate from the southern region should be appointed as the next EFCC chairman to ensure a fair distribution of power and showcase the competence of individuals from diverse backgrounds,” stated HURIWA.

It added, “It is essential to rectify the existing regional imbalance within the EFCC by appointing a candidate from the South as the next chairman, to address the perception of bias and create a more balanced representation within the institution.”

HURIWA further emphasised the need for national institutions such as the EFCC to reflect Nigeria’s diversity and promote inclusion, calling for the appointment of the EFCC head based on merit, competence, and a proven track record in the fight against corruption.

It also called for the nationalisation of the EFCC chairmanship to ensure equitable representation from all regions of the country.

(NAN)