In a recent interview on Arise TV, Hon. Obi Aguocha, representing the Ikwuano-Umuahia Federal Constituency in Abia State for the Labour Party, expressed concern about the lack of representation for the Igbo people in the latest presidential appointments. He noted that, although the President appointed about 10 individuals to various agencies, none were from the Igbo community.
Aguocha mentioned the ongoing issue surrounding Nnamdi Kanu, reiterating that the release of Kanu is a significant concern for the Igbo community. He called for greater inclusivity and recognition of the Igbo community’s role in Nigeria.
Aguocha emphasized the troubling perception that there are “two sets of rules” in Nigeria—one for the general populace and another for the Igbo people. He highlighted the impact this has on how Igbos navigate the criminal justice system and urged the government to be mindful of its actions to promote peace and stability in the Southeast. He stressed that Igbos deserve equal participation in national matters.
In his words, “What happens to Nnamdi Kanu? It appears in Nigeria that the way it’s been done suggests there are two sets of rules—one for every other Nigerian and one for the Igbos. I wouldn’t want the administration of criminal justice to reinforce that wrongly held perception that Igbos are finding it difficult within the system. This is an opportunity for the government to be circumspect in its actions to ensure peace and stability in the Southeast, making the Southeast a fully recognized community in the Nigerian project.”
“Yesterday, the President appointed about 10 persons to various agencies, including Mohammed Babangida. In the entire list, there is no mention of an Igbo person, so we continue to be treated as if we are less significant in protecting Nigeria, when we are a major and constitutional tribe and should be accorded the decency to participate fully in the Nigerian project. The issue of Nnamdi Kanu starts from this perspective, and we stand by this perspective. There is no more important issue for any Igbo person than the release of Nnamdi Kanu, and I won’t be silent about it.
