Anyim Pius Anyim, former president of the senate, says it is
time for the south-east to produce the next president of Nigeria.
That part of the country comprises majorly the Igbo.
Several groups, including Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, apex Igbo
socio-cultural organisation, have been canvassing for a president of Igbo
extraction in 2023.
Delivering a lecture at the 6th World Igbo Summit at Gregory
University, Uturu, Abia state on Friday, Anyim said those calling for Igbo
presidency should put in more effort.
“It is my opinion
that the Igbos of the south-east geo-political zone is in continuous search of
a system, or if you like, a polity that guarantees and secures his social,
political and economic interest based on equality of citizenship, equity and
justice. I make bold to say that the Igbos of the south-east geo-political zone
can find this in Nigeria,” he said.
“The journey to building an equitable society is usually
challenging and rough, but many nations have arrived safely from this journey.
It is, therefore, my position that those who posit restructuring have a point
but should work harder to secure national consensus to make it possible.
“Also those who advocate for president of Nigeria of
south-east extraction should diligently and boldly pursue it for the time has
come, and the time is now. It is, therefore, my considered view that the
present-day political interest of the Igbos of the south-east geo-political
zone is to attain the presidency of Nigeria come 2023.”
Anyim, who served as secretary to the government of the federation
under former-President Goodluck Jonathan, said Igbo presidency is neither an
entitlement nor a gift. He recommended that in engaging with other zones, the
tone must reflect negotiation and not antagonism.
“It must be one of friendship and not disdain or disrespect.
It must show our willingness to enter into an enduring and lasting relationship
for long term interest of all the parties,” he said.
He added that the task is achievable if approached collectively.
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