Ohaneze Ndigbo throws its weight behind Tinubu describing him as the protector of Igbos

PAN-cultural Igbo organisation Ohaneze Ndigbo has thrown its weight behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) national leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu describing him as the protector of the people from the southeast.

On what is seen as an endorsement of Asiwaju Tinubu's possible run for president come 2023, Ohaneze Ndigbo has described him as the man who is needed to guide Nigerians on the right path of democracy. Ohanaeze’s deputy secretary-general, Uche Okwukwu, said that Asiwaju Tinubu was a fair leader who appointed Igbos into his cabinet during his administration as the governor of Lagos State.

Mr Okwukwu said Asiwaju Tinubu is needed for the unification of the southern bloc. He also wished the APC leader, who is currently recuperating from an operation in London,  a quick recovery from his illness.

"Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu represents many things to different persons and groups. To Nigerians in general, he is one of the authors of this democracy we enjoy today. He put in so much energy as chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition, to make sure that Nigeria was returned to democracy in 1999.

"To Yorubas, he is a home-grown leader and southern Nigeria sees him as a patriot and foremost unifier. Igbo people see Asiwaju as their protector. We remember that as governor of Lagos State, he appointed an Igbo man from Anambra State, Ben Akabueze, as commissioner for economic planning and budget for eight years.

"The importance of his gesture was not lost on Igbos all over the world and we are very proud of Asiwaju. Indeed, we call him Nwanne di na mba, a brother in foreign land. Ndigbo pray God Almighty grants Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu quick recovery, particularly now that Nigeria is in serious transition.

"We need him for the unification of the southern bloc of Nigeria and we need him to mentor the younger generations. Nigerians need Asiwaju to inspire them, we need him to guide us in the right path of democracy and Nigerians want him home in good health,” Mr Okwukwu added.