Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has revealed why an Igbo did not emerge the presidential candidate of the two leading political parties in the country, the All Progressives Congress, APC and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, had emerged presidential candidates of the APC and PDP respectively.
Speaking at a lecture as part of activities to celebrate the 80th birthday of elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu held in Owerri, Governor Uzodimma said lack of unity and understanding, co operation among Igbo presidential candidates may have contributed to their dismal outing during the party primaries of the two parties.
He said a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction could perhaps been possible through proper negotiation.
He enumerated the passion for one Nigeria by Igbos, stating that “despite the crushing effects of the civil war, it is an indispensable fact that Igbos do not intend to leave Nigeria”.
Uzodimma described Iwuanyanwu as an elder statesman, a bridge builder who has continued to place the unity and progress of Nigeria above personal and parochial interests.
He said he is , “worthy of celebration and commendation not just for attaining the milestone of 80 years but for his contribution to Nigeria’s economy and social and political development”
Uzodimma described Iwuanyanwu “as a man of many paths, an engineer, a politician, a businessman, a philanthropist, a father and a role model with many achievements and glorious strides in his endeavours”
“His life can be described as a story woven into plots and chapters with themes containing great lessons to guide present and future generations”
“As a businessman, he exemplifies hardwork, determination, and innovation as he is a meticulous investor who has pioneered great businesses”
Uzodimma added that “on the political turf, Iwuanyanwu is an elder statesman, a bridge builder who has continued to place the unity and progress of Nigeria above personal and parochial interests.
In his remarks, former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan stated that Igbo nation has always stood for the unity of Nigeria, calling on Igbos to vote for leaders who will promote the unity of the country.