The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday, advised President Bola Tinubu to replace ministers who have performed below expectations with competent hands, adding that Nigerians are running out of patience.

In a statement in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, the Secretary General of the Chidi Ibeh-led faction of Ohanaeze, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that the counsel became necessary following an anticipated cabinet reshuffle scheduled for October 1, 2024, adding that the bad economy and insecurity situations in the country need to be addressed.

Isiguzoro further stated that some ministers have performed creditably, including the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

According to him, Ohanaeze emphasises the need for Tinubu to reward the South East with additional ministerial slots, adding that the region can boast of an array of capable people like Umahi, who has significantly contributed to the realisation of the President’s economic aspirations and transformative policies.

The statement reads: “With the forthcoming cabinet reshuffles on October 1, 2024, it has become imperative for us to judiciously assess and spotlight the commendable contributions made by these individuals, while also advocating for bolstered representation from the South East region.

“In recent weeks, the palpable enthusiasm among Nigerians, particularly Ndigbo, has been notably invigorated by the bilateral agreements formalised between the governments of Nigeria and China during Tinubu’s diplomatic visit. We regard these agreements as bold and pragmatic measures that possess the potential to significantly enhance the welfare of our citizens and alleviate the protracted economic hardships that have beleaguered our nation.

These initiatives, if fully implemented, will bolster not only the economy but also Tinubu’s standing in history as a transformative leader capable of enacting long-lasting developmental policies. A focal point of our interest lies within one of the seven pivotal agreements.”The group failed Tinubu’s administration for the appointments of Umahi and Wike, appealing for their retention in a potential cabinet reshuffle.