The African Democratic Congress (ADC) standard bearer for the November 8 gubernatorial ballot in Anambra State, Mr John Chuma Nwosu, says Nigeria is in dire of a fresh start to ensure sustainable development of the country.

Berating the continuing culture of feeding-bottle economy that encourages borrowing for consumption, Nwosu remarked that rescuing Nigeria has become a compelling narrative.

In a brief encounter with The Guardian, the gubernatorial contender explained that the idea of coalition became imperative to arrest the poor governance system being witnessed currently in the country.

He stated: “My perspective on the bourgeoning coalition against the backdrop of recent surge of gang up against the citizens is that rescuing Nigeria is now a compelling imperative.

“Given the level of state capture and poor governance we are witnessing, a coalition is in the common and national interest to arrest the drift.”

As to whether the coalition is dependent on political platforms or pedigree of persons, the Nnewi-born politician asserted that the coalition is exactly what it says, “-a gathering of like-minds, or people or platforms, with a similar or common interest.”

“However,” he continued, “personalities and candidates can drive or influence a coalition, but the common interest now is to salvage the sinking ship called Nigeria.”

Speaking on the recent disagreements between the Julius Abure and Senator Nenadi Usman’s camps over the involvement of the Labour Party (LP) in the coalition talks, Nwosu said no longer being a member of LP, “I don’t think I’m well situated to comment on that issue anymore.”

Reacting to the reason for his sudden change of platform from LP to ADC, the governorship hopeful said: “We have values and choices. You need to be able to defend the platform from where you operate.

“Where there are obvious conflicts to conscience and integrity, you excuse yourself or risk being party to the wrongdoings. Of course, I make bold to say that ADC presented a very credible alternative.”

Nwosu, while examining his chances at the forthcoming governorship contest in Anambra State, in the light of the fact that most of the candidates and their deputies are well known, noted that some of the gladiators “are old political hands with visible and known baggage.

“Some are serial contestants. That’s not what Anambra needs. We cannot rid ourselves of one bad governance yoke only to embrace another. Just as Nigeria, we in Anambra need a fresh face, fresh start, and sustainable governance in Anambra and I am obligated to serve.”