Following lengthy discussions with my colleagues within the socio-cultural organization, the Ohaneze Ndigbo, on Monday, January 27th, I announced formally that I will not seek the office of the Presidency in the Federal elections of 2015. I have not made this decision lightly, nor come to it easily. However, I can and will not serve as a proponent of Nigeria’s further fragmentation by dividing the present-date Igbo political consciousness, despite my accepting the gracious support of our movement in months and years past. I nonetheless have the utmost faith in the ability of our community to together carry our inevitable mission forward.
Truly, Nigeria stands at the doorstep of dynamic change, with the potential to climb to the forefront of global markets and serve as the symbolic capital of both Africa’s present potential and prosperous future. However, clear and present challenges to this ascendancy, including notably a doctrine of political complacency, may stifle our trajectory and cost dearly the future of Nigerian citizens while doing so.
Be it state or nationwide, with campaigning of any nature come the promises of a ‘brighter tomorrow’ and the promotion of individuals that the electorate should rely upon in bringing this about; those who suggest they will lead virtuously and with the best interets of the collective at heart.
I implore Nigerians to hold the tenets of democracy in high regard and fully comprehend and indeed wield the power of the vote. The timetable provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission will allow for the thoughtful consideration of each candidate, be it within Osun State, Ekiti State in the immediate term or further, at the level of Executive Office. Our citizens should be empowered and feel both responsible and moreover, accountable for thoroughly reviewing each candidate’s individual background, their past affiliations, successes, failures and future ambitions.
In doing so, let us look beyond the transparent divisions that have long-binded us, those which certain politicians have capitalized upon, holding us back for their own profit throughout our history while allowing widespread theft at a blindingly-consistent rate to build and fester. Let us openly hold those accountable who have besmirched our national reputation in years past to promote a zero-tolerance mantra against corruption in the years to come.
Further and moving forward, let us foster a new found consensus and ensure Nigeria brings about the tangible change “we want to see in the world”. Such change is now in our hands.
As those around us predict our intercontinental and global excellence, let us match and exceed it by having our voices heard fairly, openly and often, ensuring the very best for our next generation.
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