Factional secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro, has faulted claims by former vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in stepping down for former presidential candidate of LabourPartyy, LP, Mr Peter Obi in the 2027 Presidential Election.
Ohanaeze said it Reflected on past engagements with Atiku Abubakar dating back to the historical 2007 Elections where lofty promises were made but not honoured as ACTION CONGRESS, AC, Presidential candidate with Senator Ben Obi as Running mate.
Isiguzoro in a statement on Sunday stated that during the 2019 elections, the same strategic alliances were formed, only to falter when faced with pivotal decisions.
According to him, Ohanaeze Ndigbo recognizes a recurring pattern of political expediency over genuine commitment to Igbo interests.
The statement read in part” During a notably significant gathering in Enugu in 2019, Atiku’s stance against the proposed Mandela-like single tenure option suggested by Igbo leaders led by late Professor Ben Nwabueze, raised doubts about his sincerity towards accommodating Igbo demands.
“Furthermore, his alleged role in disrupting the PDP zoning arrangements for the 2023 Presidential candidacy, which was anticipated to favour the Southeast, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over his intentions and loyalty.
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“Highlights of the weariness that Ndigbohase accumulated over 17 years of experiencing what they perceive as political deception and betrayal at the hands of Atiku Abubakar since 2007.
“His grand visions and persuasive promises are likened to ’tissue papers’ – fragile and transient, failing to resonate with a vigilant and sophisticated Igbo Nation that remains cautious and discerning.
“Recalling the profound words of the Former Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Dr. Michael Okpara, in a local parlance,” First Fool, no be Fool,but the Second Fool,Na proper Foolish” Ndigbo reflect on the wisdom that accompanies being mindful of the pitfalls of repeating past mistakes, ensuring that folly does not give way to repeated missteps.
” Ohanaeze calls for astute awareness and circumspection when engaging with political figures like Atiku Abubakar. A vigilant approach grounded in accountability and transparency is vital in navigating the complex currents of Nigerian politics, safeguarding the interests and aspirations of Ndigbo with unwavering integrity.