The Ohanaeze Ndigbo on Tuesday said President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office is better than former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight years reign.
Ohanaeze, the Apex Igbo Socio-cultural organization, in a statement issued by its Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, also scored the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi as the best performing minister while the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike is in second position.
Ohanaeze named the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in third position and named the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga in fourth position.
“These esteemed individuals are regarded as the pillars of support for President Tinubu’s administration.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally asserts that the first year of President Bola Tinubu’s presidency, as viewed from the Igbo perspective and experience, has been marked by progress, development, and a genuine commitment to overcoming challenges.
This stands in stark contrast to the wasteful eight years under the previous administration headed by Former President Buhari.
“During Buhari’s tenure, the Southeast region was subjected to deliberate economic suppression and marginalization, which targeted Igbo industrialists and investors while promoting strife through harmful policies such as open grazing and RUGA land-grabbing initiatives. This led to heightened insecurity and economic neglect, leaving the Igbo nation disenfranchised and marginalized.
“In contrast, the current administration under President Tinubu has shown remarkable political will and determination to address these challenges.
The ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of major federal expressways in the Southeast, spearheaded by Senator Dave Umahi, has brought about increased economic activity and infrastructure development, changing the narrative of neglect and disfavour towards the region,” the group said.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo commended Senator Umahi for his exemplary performance as Minister of Works, which has significantly contributed to the acceptance and recognition of the APC in the Southeast.
It said his diligence, dedication, innovative ideas, and unwavering commitment to his duties had not gone unnoticed, and his efforts had brought about a positive change in the region.
According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Wike’s leadership as the FCT Minister had been notable for his visionary governance and pragmatic programmes, while Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, had demonstrated a strong commitment to national advancement through his reformative efforts in the passport sector.
“Additionally, Bayo Onanuga’s dedication as a Senior Presidential Media Aide has been instrumental in articulating President Tinubu’s vision for national rejuvenation,” it added.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called on Tinubu to cease the unnecessary demolition of Igbo properties in Lagos, release Nnamdi Kanu, and advocate for trade policies that encouraged friendly relations and sound economic growth.
The group said the reopening of the Calabar Seaport is also urged, as it holds immense potential for boosting economic activity, especially in conjunction with the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Super Highway.