Factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro has said that the absent of the Presidential candidate of Labour party, LP, in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi during the one year anniversary of Abia governor, Alex Otti is generating concerns.
Isiguzoro stated that the Nigerian populace, particularly the esteemed Igbo community, has been keenly observant of what appears to be a brewing silent conflict between Obi and Otti.
This was contained in a statement he issued on Thursday and made available to The Trumpet in Abakiliki.
According to lsiguzoro, It has come to the attention of Ohanaeze that Obi was noticeably absent during the recent first-year celebration of Alex Otti’s tenure in on May 29, 2024.
The statement reads in parts”Alarming to all Nigerians is the fact that Mr Obi’s name was excluded from the list of distinguished guests expected to grace the occasion at the State International Conference Centre.
“Furthermore, Obi has failed to extend public congratulations to Governor Otti on his inaugural year as the Governor of Abia State, indicating a lack of unity and camaraderie within the ranks of the Labour Party.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo has patiently waited to see if Mr Obi would rectify this situation by extending a heartfelt congratulatory message to Governor Otti during the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s Democracy on June 12, 2024.
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“However, it has been evident that Mr Obi’s participation in state functions has been minimal, his name omitted from official lists of dignitaries, and his images neglected in Abia State’s event publications for both May 29th and June 12.
“It is apparent that a gap exists between Mr. Obi and Governor Otti, with the latter failing to engage Mr Obi in the commissioning of any projects within the State under the Labour Party’s governance.Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed unease over this evident divide and urges both parties to seek reconciliation promptly.
The apex body urged Peter Obi to take a cue from President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering support for his party members, as exemplified in his endorsement of past and present governors under his leadership.
“Obi must realize that disunity among prominent Igbo leaders only serves to undermine the collective welfare of the people. ln the event that reconciliation efforts falter, Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands ready to intervene and impose necessary measures to address the grievances. Both Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti must set aside their differences for the betterment of the Igbo nation.
