May 16, (THEWILL)- The Secretary-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, has warned the 2023Â Labour Party Presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, to learn from the past mistakes of Igbo presidential hopefuls who were disappointed despite their alliance with the North.
Isiguzoro said the recent political manoeuvres of former Anambra Governor and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, have stirred both surprise and scrutiny among Nigerians and Ndigbo.
According to him, Mr Obi’s deliberative visits to key Northern figures such as former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and ex-Jigawa Governor, Dr Sule Lamido, hint at potential opposition party alignments aimed at unseating President Tinubu in 2027.
In a press statement made available to THEWILL, he stated that “Observers have closely monitored the subtle political trajectory of Mr Obi over the past nine months, particularly in the core North – Northwest and Northeast regions – where he has strategically coupled humanitarian initiatives with political intentions to garner broader Northern acceptance and articulate his vision for the upcoming presidential elections.
“Notably, Mr Obi’s understated community projects, scholarship grants, and participation in Muslim ceremonies have been perceived as opportune steps to fortify his political stature, especially in the North, ahead of the 2027 polls.
“With discussions brewing around opposition party alliances and the potential merger of existing parties into a formidable entity spearheaded by Mr Obi’s confidant, Prof. Pat Utomi, to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, the political landscape is undoubtedly dynamic and charged with anticipation.
“However, amidst these developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo offers a sobering voice of caution to Mr Obi regarding the inherent risks and uncertainties that accompany his relentless pursuit of Northern connections.
“The Northern political establishment, religious scholars, and traditional institutions harbour reservations towards Mr Obi for several notable reasons. Firstly, his failure to clearly address the issue of Biafra Agitation and enunciate a definitive stance on the matter has left the Northern elites hesitant about endorsing an Igbo presidency.
“Secondly, questions abound concerning the substantive benefits that the North stands to gain from Mr Obi’s self-reliant and self-assured political approach, especially when contrasted with the impactful empowerment endeavours undertaken by figures like President Tinubu and Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“Thirdly, the North is bewildered as to why Mr Obi has shifted his focus from his historical support bases such as the Southeast, Middle Belt, and Niger Delta regions, redirecting his efforts towards soliciting acceptance in the Northwest and Northeast areas.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, extends well wishes to Mr Obi in his political pursuits in the North but implores him to glean wisdom from the poignant lessons of history, specifically the disenchanting experiences of past Igbo presidential candidates who pinned their hopes on Northern endorsement. Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Senator Rochas Okorocha, Senator Chuba Okadigbo, and others serve as stark reminders of the disappointments faced by Igbo aspirants despite their overtures and perceived alliances with the North.
“It is paramount for Mr Obi and prospective Igbo presidential contenders to internalise these historical narratives and engage the North through a framework of regional collaboration rather than individualistic endeavours. Only by fostering a renewed sense of trust and understanding between the Northern region and the Southeast can lasting partnerships be forged, underscoring the imperative of a holistic and inclusive approach towards the journey to the 2027 elections.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasises the pivotal need for astute comprehension of Northern dynamics and strategic regional alliances for a successful presidential bid. By heeding these insights, Mr Obi and his counterparts stand to navigate the intricate fabric of Nigerian politics with sagacity and foresight, thereby mitigating the shadows of past betrayals and charting a course towards a more cohesive and prosperous future for our nation”, the statement stated.
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