2023 Igbo presidency campaigners slam clamour for restructuring

A political pressure group, Nigeria Presidential Project 2023 (NPP 2023), has said the timing of the clamour for President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the country is not right.

The group also urged all parties to zone their 2023 presidential slots to the South East.

The Chancellor of the group, Dr. Walter Oji, said this yesterday in Abakaliki during the inauguration of the Ebonyi State chapter of the body.

Although the group backed calls for the restructuring of Nigeria, it insisted that it was the wrong time to raise the issue.

Oji said: “Let me make it abundantly clear that NPP 2023 is fully in support of restructuring. I must however stress that those now calling on President Buhari to restructure Nigeria at this time are simply being mischievous and probably trying to change the narrative from zoning to restructuring.

“They speak of restructuring as if the concept is alien to our country. Nigeria was previously operating under a regional structure and a parliamentary system before being transformed into state structures and presidential systems. These states are essentially autonomous with their own Houses of Assembly that pass their own laws, manage their own affairs and economy among other things.”

He said the group would work against any party that failed to field a South Easterner for the 2023 presidential poll.

Oji promised that the southeast would present good materials for the election, urging those interested in the race to commence consultations aimed at actualising their dreams.

NPP 2023 commended President Muhammadu Buhari for rehabilitating the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, completion of the Onitsha River Port, and work on the 2nd Niger Bridge.

It also praised Governor David Umahi for his achievements.