The foremost Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has strongly criticized Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for his recent statements promoting a Northern presidency for the upcoming 2027 elections.
In a statement issued today by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the organization expressed serious concerns regarding Atiku’s apparent dismissal of the principle of rotational presidency.
Ohanaeze reaffirmed its stance in favor of a Southern presidency for the 2023-2031 term, emphasizing the importance of equitable representation in Nigeria’s leadership.
The statement also conveyed the gratitude of the Igbo community towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his ongoing infrastructure initiatives in Southeastern Nigeria, including significant federal road projects that had been overlooked during the previous administration of Obasanjo and Atiku.
Isiguzoro asserted that the Igbo people would not support Atiku’s Northern-focused vision and would instead fully back President Tinubu’s governance.
In part, the statement declared: “We firmly maintain that with the conclusion of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Northern tenure, which lasted eight years from 2015 to 2023, it is imperative that leadership transitions back to Southern Nigeria from 2023 to 2031.”
“This transition is vital for ensuring fair representation and governance in our diverse nation. Atiku Abubakar’s persistent push for Northern dominance has irreparably damaged his standing with the Igbo community, as it is seen as a direct challenge to our goals for inclusion and advancement.”
“His statements indicate a troubling exclusionary agenda, minimizing Southern candidates, including Mr. Obi, as viable options for future leadership.”
“The implications of his remarks suggest an intent to relegate Mr. Obi to a lesser role, rather than acknowledging him as a significant opposition figure in his own right.”
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally rejects such political tactics that aim to diminish the status of the Igbo people within the political landscape.”
“Moreover, our vision as Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not reliant on Atiku Abubakar’s promotion of a Northern presidency; instead, it is firmly rooted in the remarkable infrastructural advancements currently taking place in Southeastern Nigeria.”
