Religious leaders have joined the call for an Igbo presidency come 2023.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation Ohanaeze Ndigbo is championing the call.
But in what looks like a new twist, the Anglican Archbishop on the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Dr Alexander Ibezim and also, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, declared their backing for the call.
Both clergymen said the Igbo Presidency in 2023 is not negotiable
The Ohanaeze had stated that for the unity of the country, Ndigbo should be allowed to lead the country in 2023.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo leaders like Chief Nnia Nwodo, former governor of Anambra State, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife and president of the group in Anambra State, Chief Damian Okeke -Ogene have been at the forefront of the 2023 Igbo presidency.
However, during their separate Christmas messages in Awka, both Clerics, declared that for peace, equity and fairness, Ndigbo should be allowed to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.
For Ezeokafor, ” I have no doubt that if we really understand Nigeria as a system, as it was being run even before the military incursion, we can see that as a country with three major ethnic groups, Hausa man has taken, Yoruba man taken, and maybe someone from South-South has taken, I think the Igbos should get something in fairness.
“Besides, we’re not appendage in this country. That’s why when I look at the way things happen in this country, including employment, you don’t find our people getting better slots.
“A country is moved by education because when the citizens are educated, they can operate at several levels.
“At least from 1999, it’s obvious that Obasanjo has ruled, Yaradua took over, which Jonathan completed and tried his turn. Now is Buhari. I think it’s the time of the Igbos to man the post.
” It’s a serious demand, for justice and equity to take its course. Otherwise, these are some of the things that generate frictions, when someone feels he’s no longer part of the arrangements. He’ll try to find his way. All the agitations are not for nothing.
“I think Igbo presidency in 2023 should be considered and should get something if Nigeria is considered as one country.
“Otherwise, we go back to the regions. Moreso, we don’t have real confederation. It’s not even a privilege, but a right.”
Lending his voice to Igbo presidency in 2023, the Anglican Archbishop on the Niger, Dr Alexander Ibezim in his message, lamented that Ndigbo had not given their due right in Nigeria and should be given chance in 2023
