Igbo Leaders Stifled By Corruption: Obidigbo Calls For Action Against Political Injustice!

Dr. Chike Obidigbo, President of the Osisioma Foundation and a long-time associate of Peter Obi, has voiced his frustration with the current state of Nigerian politics, particularly following the recent governorship election in Edo State.

Obidigbo disclosed that he had advised Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, to shift his focus away from the political arena in Nigeria and instead concentrate on initiatives that would benefit the youth and the nation in various capacities.

In reflecting on the aftermath of the Edo election, Obidigbo noted that Obi’s endorsement of Olumide Akpata faced unwarranted backlash. He expressed disbelief at the criticisms directed at Obi, especially since Akpata had been accused of violating zoning agreements in Edo State. Obidigbo defended Obi’s democratic principles, stating that these attacks reveal the deep-seated double standards prevalent in Nigerian politics.

The elder statesman also articulated his dissatisfaction with the systemic exclusion and marginalization of the Igbo people, suggesting that, like many Igbo leaders, Obi is often constrained by the country’s political environment. He pointed out that while critics were quick to condemn Obi’s actions, there was a noticeable silence in 2023 when the rotation of power should have favored the Southeast region.

Obidigbo stressed that Nigeria’s democracy seems to have lost sight of the principles of fairness, equity, and adherence to the rule of law. He remarked, “Nigerians should have united to demand that all major political parties acknowledge that it was the Southeast’s turn to produce the President, especially since politicians were unwilling to replicate the 1999 precedent that saw all presidential candidates emerge from the Southwest.”

He further questioned whether Nigeria’s democracy could persist without an Igbo leader at its helm, noting the political advantages held by other regions: “The Northeast is set for another four years after previously serving as Vice President for eight. The Northwest has enjoyed eleven years as President and three years as Vice President. Meanwhile, the Southwest is beginning another four-year term after a cumulative sixteen years in both roles.”

“If Nigeria has devolved into a rogue state that disregards the rule of law, fairness, and equity, then it may be time to reconsider the union. How can democracy exist without respect for the law? When injustices against the Igbo occur, there is often a conspicuous silence,” he stated.

Obidigbo also criticized the inactivity of Southeast politicians, accusing them of prioritizing self-interest over the welfare of their constituents. He lamented that many have become fixated on personal gain, neglecting the broader struggles faced by the Igbo community in Nigeria.

“These Igbo politicians have become mere opportunists, representing no one but their own interests. Take the case of Nnamdi Kanu, who has been imprisoned through backdoor means simply for voicing concerns about the growing injustices faced by his people. If things were done properly in this country, and the Igbo were not subjected to hatred and exclusion, Kanu would not be agitating. His demand for a referendum stems from Nigeria’s continuous disregard for the injuries suffered by the Igbo. What kind of nation ignores its own laws?” he questioned.

“As a longtime friend of Peter Obi, I urge him to cease his efforts to reform Nigeria’s leadership selection process. He is too principled for the kind of deception rife in Nigeria. My belief is that Peter Obi should focus his considerable energy and broad support on liberating his suffering people rather than waste it on a hostile and ungrateful system. Enough of these charades—Obi has far too much to offer a system entrenched in corruption,” Obidigbo concluded.