In a bid to foster unity and inclusivity, three prominent governors from the southeastern region of Nigeria have expressed their support for Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s decision to attend the upcoming inauguration of President-elect, Senator Bola Tinubu, on May 29, 2023. Governors Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State, Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, and Nyesom Wike of Rivers State have not only endorsed the move but are actively collaborating with Ohanaeze Ndigbo to ensure its successful realization.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, revealed its intentions in a statement issued by the Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro. The organization emphasized that boycotting Tinubu’s inauguration would not serve any strategic purpose for the Igbo community. On the contrary, it could result in the undue isolation of Ndigbo and convey the wrong impression that they were at odds with Tinubu.
The statement clarified that while Ohanaeze Ndigbo supports the pursuit of legal and constitutional rights regarding the 2023 presidential election results by Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, it advocates for a law-abiding approach and advises against confrontations with the incoming Tinubu-led Federal Government. Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized the importance of looking at political issues holistically, without being driven solely by disjointed sentiments.
The organization stressed that boycotting the inauguration would be counterproductive, as it would sever potential avenues for Ndigbo to engage with the federal administration led by Tinubu. Ohanaeze Ndigbo believes that such a move would be detrimental to their interests and hinder their ability to positively influence decisions that impact their community.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted the international recognition and support received by Tinubu, with notable figures such as former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken extending their congratulations. Their countries are also expected to attend the inauguration, underscoring the significance of the event on a global scale.
In a display of solidarity, the three governors have not only pledged their support for Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s participation but have also committed to ensuring that the Igbo community does not feel isolated or neglected under Tinubu’s leadership. Their dedication reflects a broader objective of fostering unity and inclusiveness in the political landscape, transcending partisan boundaries for the betterment of their region and the nation as a whole.