Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Wednesday, berated a former governor of Kano, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, over their comment against the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, warning them not to distract the minister and the present administration.
In a statement obtained by The Guardian in Abakaliki, the Deputy National President of a faction of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that Senator Umahi has meticulously presented irrefutable evidence demonstrating that 52 per cent of all road construction projects under President Tinubu’s administration have been allocated to the North, questioning the grounds for comments from two respectable northern leaders.
He noted that the recent comments from Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) further exemplify this disconcerting pattern, as they seek to manipulate public perception through falsehoods. He stated that his confidence is that Nigerians are aware that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is addressing the country’s challenges.
In response to Babachir Lawal’s comment, Isiguzoro stated that it embodies a troubling trend of disinformation that seeks to undermine the significant contributions of both Umahi and President Tinubu, challenging him to present his scorecards when he was SGF.
The statement reads in part, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally condemns these attempts to malign both President Tinubu and Senator Umahi. It is abundantly clear that these orchestrated attacks are part of a broader, malicious agenda designed to incite division and unrest within the Northern constituency.
“It is the ultimate aim of destabilising the current administration in anticipation of the 2027 presidential elections, and such actions are not only irresponsible but also reflect a profound disregard for the collective progress of our nation.
“We implore the Northern political elites, particularly those leading the charge against Senator Umahi, to cease this campaign of calumny because the achievements of Senator Umahi stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to national development.
‘It also surpasses the contributions of his detractors and the Nigerian populace, including our Northern compatriots, is discerning enough to recognise the truth amidst the cacophony of deceit.
“We call upon all stakeholders to redirect their efforts towards constructive dialogue and collaboration, rather than indulging in petty politics that serve only to distract and divide.
“The time for unity and integrity in our political discourse is now, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a harmonious and prosperous Nigeria for all.”
