By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Ndi-Igbo United Forum (NUF), a sociopolitical pressure group has appealed to all political parties in the country to zone their presidential tickets to South East geopolitical zone in 2023 Presidential poll.
The NUF President General, Chief Godson Ezenagu, in an interview in Awka, Anambra state, emphasised that zoning engender peace, tranquility and development, adding that Igbo politicians were more qualified and positioned to transform the country for good if availed the opportunity.
He equally countered the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, assertion that Igbo could only show readiness in the position when they join All Progressive Congress (APC), saying it was not true.
“In 1999, Nigerians placated the South West by presenting two Presidential candidates from the zone. One of them, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo eventually won. Nigerians also placated the South South by giving massive support to former President Goodluck Jonathan. Zone is very important in all we do even in family.
"All political parties should zone their Presidential ticket to South East in the principle of equity, natural justice and good conscience. Zoning will fissile out every agitation in the South East. If our brother Senator Ngige is not ready to present himself for the office, we have other men and women of timber and calibres who are ready for it. He should go ahead to canvass members in his party, while allowing others to do same.
"Our people are marketable and experienced. An Igbo man can contest and win Presidential seat anywhere in Africa, Europe or even Asian countries. Why can’t we have the same opportunity in our own country?,” he stated.
He, however, advised his people to develop more interest in the national politics as well as make known their aspiration across all political parties.
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Politics