Igbo Presidency: Apologise To Amaechi - IYM Tells Obi

Peter Obi, the vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 election, has been urged by the Ikwerre Youth Movement (IYM), a socio-cultural group, to apologise to Rotimi Amaechi, the former transportation minister, if he (Obi) could not condemn the statement made by Rochas Okorocha.

The call was made by the group’s chairman in Emohua, Sir Lucky Worlu, while speaking in Port Harcourt, Rivers state on Tuesday, June 18, Vanguard reports.

Legit.ng notes that Amaechi had stated that Igbos must play national politics if they want to be successful in their quest for the 2023 presidency. In response, Obi, said the former minister cannot determine the fortune of the south-east in the 2023 presidential race, and lacked political relevance in his state.

However, while speaking after his inauguration into the National Assembly, Okorocha advised Igbo leaders to reach out to other regions if they expect to produce a president in 2023. 

The IYM president called on Obi to condemn Okorocha on the statement or immediately apologise to their son, Amaechi.

Worlu further urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo to commence consultations early; stressing that what Amaechi said was the true position on how the south-eastern region would produce a president in the next four years.

He said: “What Rochas Okorocha said has vindicated our son Amaechi, that Igbos need to play national politics. If Okorocha could corroborate this and his brother Obi will not condemn it, it means something is wrong.

“We are using this moment to call on Peter Obi to apologise to our son, Chibuike Amaechi, for the attack. Our son is still very much relevant and has done enough for the people of the state and we love him.”

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a former governor of old Anambra state, Senator Jim Nwobodo, called for Igbo presidency in 2023, saying “Nigeria will not know peace until an Igbo becomes president.”

Nwobodo made this assertion during his 79th birthday celebration which took place in Enugu. He, however, also called on Ndigbo to come together and support any body that is doing well to represent the south-east.