By Olusegun Olanrewaju
The pan-Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has recognised the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, as the political leader of the South-East region just like the late Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu, Dr Alex Ekwueme, and other prominent figures were during their time.
In a statement on Wednesday by its Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze Ndigbo said the absence of influential figures that shaped the South-East such as Ojukwu, Ekwueme, Dr Michael Okpara, Dr Sam Mbakwe, Pa Mbazulike Amaechi, and Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife had left a void in the region thus creating a need for a strong leader who possesses a deep understanding of Igbo interests and values.
The group said Umahi is undeniably the perfect peg in a round hole, serving as a driving force and one of the strongest pillars of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the Federal Government.
The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo further stated that Umahi possesses the qualities and pedigree required to become the missing link in the South-East region, adding that he is the new political leader and rallying point that will unite our people, inspire confidence, and foster resilience.
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The statement read, “After an extensive search for a leader who can guide the Southeast towards better political representation and a unifying rallying point, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is pleased to recognize Senator David Nweze Umahi, the honourable Minister of Works under President Bola Tinubu, as the worthy successor of esteemed leaders like Dim Odumegwu Emeka Ojukwu, Dr Alex Ekwueme, and other prominent figures who have shaped the political landscape of the South-East.
“As a detribalised Nigerian administrator, Senator Umahi has demonstrated remarkable leadership by ensuring the equitable distribution of road construction projects in all six geopolitical zones, employing innovative cement and concrete technologies.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses eternal gratitude to President Tinubu for giving Nigerians the privilege of having Senator Umahi as a representative. We applaud Senator Umahi for consistently living up to expectations, despite facing sabotage and challenges in the line of duty.”
The Ndigbo group implores Umahi to step into the illustrious shoes of Ojukwu, Ekwueme, and other revered leaders to address and alleviate the challenges faced by the people of the South-East.
The apex socio-political body also stressed that Umahi’s membership in the Tinubu-led Federal Government would facilitate a stronger connection between the South-East and the centre, adding that it would enable greater participation and representation within the mainstream political party.
