THE ALL Progressives Congress (APC) has failed Nigeria, having produced two tribal presidents. We can no longer afford a tribal president, a president who will use national assignment to prosecute ethnic agenda. Nigeria’s presidency shouldn’t be defined by tribal affiliations. We need a president who will prioritise national interests over tribal agendas.
Peter Obi stands out as a candidate who embodies integrity, passion for development, and a commitment to putting his knowledge to work for the nation’s benefit. His track record showcases his dedication to Nigeria’s progress, untainted by corruption. His candidacy resonates with Nigerians seeking a leader who will prioritise the nation’s growth and future.
As Nigeria looks towards 2027, our priority should be reclaiming the progress we had achieved prior to the emergence of APC in 2015. The current administration, despite its lofty promises, has fallen short. Instead of prosperity, we’ve seen rising poverty, increased insecurity, deepened divisions, ethnic chauvinism and empty propaganda.
Ethnic presidents have exacerbated Nigeria’s divisions. During Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, key appointments predominantly favoured Hausa-Fulani and Muslims, revealing a concerning bias. His administration’s policies and actions sparked accusations of Fulanisation and Islamisation, with some prominent Nigerians, like then Governor Samuel Ortom and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo expressing concerns about a hidden agenda. While the North seemed at ease with his leadership, others saw him as prioritising Fulani interests over national unity.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has continued from where Muhammadu Buhari stopped, just like he did promise. He has been criticised for favouring Yoruba appointees in key positions. A review of his appointments reveals a significant presence of Yoruba in strategic roles, sparking concerns about ethnic bias. While Tinubu’s supporters argue that these appointments reflect competence and merit, critics see it as a worrying trend of ethnic favouritism.
This perceived bias has raised questions about the representation of other ethnic groups and the implication for national unity.
The APC has been criticised for leveraging ethnic bias in its politics. By promoting the ‘Emilokan’ narrative, the party has exacerbated ethnic divisions. Unfortunately, the APC has outdone the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in perpetuating divisive politics, further polarising the nation. The party has set a troubling precedent for Nigerian democracy.
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The PDP presidencies, led by Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan, promoted national unity and inclusivity. Obasanjo’s administration set a precedent for diversity in appointments, reflecting Nigeria’s multicultural identity. His successors continued this trend, fostering a sense of belonging among citizens.
Under PDP, Nigeria experienced a vibrant democracy, marked by freedom of speech, independent judiciary delivering landmark judgments, unfettered protests, autonomous INEC conducting fairly credible elections. In contrast, the APC’s rise to power saw a shift towards ethnocracy, undermining democratic principles and national unity.
Nigeria does not need divisive politics at this time. Our unity looks very fragile and any style of governance that encourages erosion of democracy and the rise of ethnocratic tendencies can only take us backwards, and indeed APC has taken us many years backward.
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As Nigeria looks towards 2027, our priority should be reclaiming the progress we had achieved prior to the emergence of APC in 2015. The current administration, despite its lofty promises, has fallen short. Instead of prosperity, we’ve seen rising poverty, increased insecurity, deepened divisions, ethnic chauvinism and empty propaganda.
Peter Obi embodies the leadership Nigeria needs. He transcends ethnic boundaries, exemplifying patriotism and statesmanship. His integrity is evident in his modest living without state-funded perks since leaving office over a decade ago. No corruption allegations or EFCC records but a track record of transparent governance in Anambra State and visionary ideas for Nigeria’s development.
Nigeria needs a leader who can rescue us from this quagmire. A true statesman, not a regional or ethnic demagogue. Someone with a proven track record of commitment to national unity, respect for democracy, investment in critical sectors. A leader who puts Nigeria’s interests above personal or ethnic agendas. It’s time for a patriot who can unite and propel our nation forward to lead.
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Development thrives in an atmosphere of peace, unity, and love. Nation-building requires a collective commitment to a shared vision. Unfortunately, the APC’s politics of divisive rhetoric, ethnic favouritism (Emilokan), regionalism, reckless spending and insensitive borrowing, threatens Nigeria’s stability and progress.
True development demands a departure from these destructive tendencies and a focus on inclusive, patriotic leadership.
Peter Obi embodies the leadership Nigeria needs. He transcends ethnic boundaries, exemplifying patriotism and statesmanship. His integrity is evident in his modest living without state-funded perks since leaving office over a decade ago. No corruption allegations or EFCC records but a track record of transparent governance in Anambra State and visionary ideas for Nigeria’s development.
Obi’s character and leadership style resonate with progressives and Nigerians seeking change. He’s not just a candidate, but a symbol of hope for a better Nigeria.
Comrade Amechi, a trade union activist, writes from Lagos.
