By Blessing Elo Oghene
Igbo patriots and the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo have been urged to speak out against what has been described as continued attacks on former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, by some Igbo politicians.
Former National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, made the call while speaking with newsmen in Owerri, urging Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State and Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, to focus on their responsibilities rather than what he described as attempts to discredit Obi’s record in office.
Awuzie said the continued silence of Igbo elders and leaders over the issue was becoming worrisome, stressing that traditional Igbo leadership had a responsibility to speak out when issues affecting the interest and image of the people arose.
He said: “The patriotic Igbo man is known for speaking out. So, what are our Elders-in-Council in the South-East doing? What about those in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and those in Imeobi of Ohanaeze?
“Why can’t they call Governor Soludo and Engr. Umahi to order? They should tell the duo to leave Obi alone.”
The former ASUU president advised Soludo and Umahi to concentrate on their respective responsibilities and serve the public effectively.
He argued that efforts to undermine Obi’s record as a former governor would not succeed, adding that the two politicians should focus on governance.
Awuzie said: “There should be a limit to greed, envy and jealousy. They should face governance; govern well and minister well. They can’t be a match to Obi, no matter how they try to rubbish his credibility. Igbo elders should rise and show leadership.”
He further described Obi as a politician he believed could provide the kind of leadership Nigeria needs at this time, urging Nigerians to consider his record and political profile.
“Obi is a kind of leader Nigeria wants at this point in time. He is a different breed of politician. So, if Nigerians know what is good for them, they should bank on Mr. Peter Obi,” he said.
Awuzie also dismissed what he described as efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his supporters to damage Obi’s reputation, insisting that such attempts would not diminish what he called Obi’s integrity and public standing.
“Obi is a model and somebody Ndigbo are proud of and I believe that other Nigerians are also proud of him. This is because, wherever he goes across the country, people troop out to welcome him,” he added.
