Apex pan-Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday raised the alarm over the ‘noticeable discord’ between former Labour Party, LP, governorship candidate, Peter Obi, and the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organisation said the feud between the duo became noticeable during the celebration of the June 12 Democracy Day observed nationwide.
According to Ohanaeze, ”The discerning eyes of Nigerians, particularly the Igbo community, have noticed a worrisome situation that may suggest a simmering conflict between the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and the incumbent Abia State Governor, Dr. Akex Otti.
”It is disheartening to all citizens that Mr. Peter Obi was noticeably absent during the commemoration of Dr. Alex Otti’s first year in office as the Governor of Abia State on May 29, 2024.
”To everyone’s surprise, Mr. Obi’s name was omitted from the anticipated list of dignitaries who graced the occasion at the State International Conference Centre.
”Furthermore, the failure of Mr. Obi to publicly congratulate Governor Otti on his first year as the Labour Party’s elected Governor of Abia State raises concerns about unity within the party”.
The statement added, ”Ohanaeze Ndigbo has patiently observed the unfolding situation, hoping that Mr. Obi would rectify the matter by extending a gracious congratulatory message to Governor Otti during the 25th anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s Democracy on June 12, 2024.
”Nevertheless, Mr. Obi’s exclusion from state functions, the omission of his name from official lists of dignitaries, and the absence of his images in Abia State’s event materials for both May 29 and June 12, cast a shadow of doubt”.
Ohanaeze also stated, ”The absence of Mr. Obi at state functions and Governor Otti’s failure to involve him in project inaugurations under the governance of the Labour Party hints at a possible rift between these two notable figures.
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, has voiced concerns over this apparent discord and calls for immediate efforts towards reconciliation.
”We implore Mr. Peter Obi to emulate the unwavering support demonstrated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards his party members, emphasising the necessity for unity among leaders for the advancement of the Igbo community”.
It also submitted, ”In the event that reconciliation efforts falter, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will not shy away from taking necessary measures to address this unsettling development.
”It is crucial for both Mr. Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti to set aside their differences and work together harmoniously for the betterment of the Igbo people”.
