2027: Ohanaeze labels Atiku’s VP offer, alarming recurrence of historical deceptions

The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has labelled Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s alleged Vice-Presidential ticket offer to Mr. Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 general elections, as an alarming recurrence of historical deceptions.

The Igbo group in an electronic statement sent to Fresh Angle International last night, Tuesday May 20, condemned what it described as Atiku’s attempts to sidle up to the South-East for the third consecutive time.

The statement credited to the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, MAZI Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted in parts: “The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo hereby issues a resolute denunciation of the alarming recurrence of historical deceptions and manipulative political manoeuvres orchestrated by Atiku Abubakar against the Southeast.

“In unequivocal terms, Ohanaeze condemns Atiku’s attempts to sidle up to the South-East for the third consecutive time, presenting whitewashed lies and deploying old tactics surrounding the notion of a single presidency—a concept that has proven to be nothing more than insipid propaganda.

“In 2019, Atiku Abubakar's nebulous offers regarding a single Presidency laid bare an insincere engagement with Ohanaeze and revered Igbo leaders, including the late Professor Ben Nwabueze.

“The discussions that transpired during his 2019 presidential consultative meeting convened at the Nike Lake Hotel in Enugu, revealed a clear desire for a more cooperative relationship, supported by a well-established, documented written agreement. Regrettably, Atiku rebuffed this overture, demonstrating an unwillingness to engage with the seriousness and respect demanded by the South-East.

“Merely days later, he unveiled his political manifesto—entitled “2019 ECONOMIC 6-YEAR PLAN OF ATIKU”—an act that unequivocally illustrated his intentions. It was made abundantly clear that he never harbored genuine intentions of a single-term presidency; rather, he utilized these hollow promises as mere instruments of political deception to entice the Southeast.

“In light of these historical repetitions, Ohanaeze does not wish to directly counsel Former Anambra Governor, Mr. Peter Obi regarding Atiku’s recent proposal for him to serve as a vice-presidential nominee in the forthcoming 2027 elections.

“However, it is imperative that Mr. Obi understands that the quest for the presidency in 2027 represents a Southern project. Any coalition or collaboration that favors a Northern presidency would not only undermine the aspirations of the South, but would also potentially facilitate an unobstructed pathway for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.

“We must also caution Mr. Obi that the enthusiasm of Nigerian youth—his ardent supporters collectively referred to as “Obidients”—is not to be taken lightly. Should he choose to accept a vice-presidential position under Atiku’s candidacy, the repercussions could be dire.

“The youth, who represent a significant segment of the electorates, may very well express their considerable disapproval in ways that could jeopardize his political future and viability.

“To that end, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for a forthright demand: Atiku Abubakar should retire from the political scene immediately and voluntarily, redirecting his support toward a Southern candidate in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. The relentless pursuit of the presidency through duplicitous tactics must cease. It is time for Atiku to recognize that his approach is not only outdated but detrimental to the progress and unity of the Southeast.

“We call upon all political actors to eschew the allure of opportunism and to embrace an era of genuine engagement and collaboration that truly reflects the aspirations of the Igbo people and the broader Southern community. The path forward must be built on sincerity, transparency, and respect for all constituencies within our diverse nation.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of the Southeast, and we will not be cowed by the empty rhetoric of political charlatans. The time for authentic leadership is now, and we will not compromise our integrity in the face of persistent deceit.”

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