A former House of Representatives member who represented Brass Constituency of Bayelsa State, Israel Sunny-Goli, has described the push by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai’s proposal for a North-South South alliance to rescue Nigeria as being driven by parochial interests.
In a statement on Tuesday, Sunny-Goli insisted that Nigeria is in safe hands under President Bola Tinubu, hence does not require the rescue, that el-Rufai is preaching.
According to him, President Tinubu is diligently addressing the economic and security challenges inherited from the Buhari administration.
He described the former Kaduna State governor’s call for an alliance between the North and the South-South as a desperate bid for political relevance.
The politician maintained that what Nigeria needs now, is for all well-meaning citizens to support President Tinubu’s initiatives, aimed at repositioning the country.
“With due respect to former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el -Rufai, his call for a North/South South alliance is unwarranted, especially when predicated on rescuing Nigeria, as he has suggested.
“It is no secret that this administration inherited a troubled economy and security issues, but through bold policy measures, we are making progress. The Nigerian Armed Forces are intensifying efforts against insurgents, restoring the nation to a path of peace and progress.
“I would advise Malam el -Rufai to wait until 2031, if he has ambitions for the nation’s highest office, and not involve the South South region in his political pursuits.
“While he has a right to his ambitions, the timing and context of his statement were inappropriate, particularly during a condolence visit to the late elder statesman, Pa Edwin Clark’s residence, which should have been solely to sympathize with the bereaved family.
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“Furthermore, it is important to note that the South South region is well-represented in President Tinubu’s administration, with sons and daughters of the region holding significant positions.
“This indicates the region’s close relationship with the President. For instance, Chief Nyesom Wike is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, marking the first time since 1976, that a southerner holds this position.
“Other key positions include Senator Godswill Akpabio as President of the Senate, Heineken Lokpobiri as minister of state for petroleum resources (oil), Ekperikpe Ekpo as minister of state for petroleum resources (gas), Samuel Ogbuku as managing director of NDDC, Felix Omatsola Ogbe as executive secretary of NCDMB, Abubakar Momoh as minister of regional development, Festus Keyamo as minister of aviation and aerospace development, and our esteemed First Lady, Sen. Remi Tinubu, among many others.
“I believe the South South could not ask for a better deal at this time. Perhaps in 2031, we can discuss an alliance, but for now, we fully support President Tinubu,” Sunny-Goli stated.
