Dr. Chike Obidigbo, a prominent industrialist and President of the Osisioma Foundation, argues that June 12 should not be celebrated as Democracy Day in Nigeria. Instead, he believes it should be a day of lamentation, reflecting on the failures of democracy to deliver true benefits to the people.
Speaking in Abuja, Obidigbo stated, “June 12, as Democracy Day, is a reminder of the abortion of hope and the desecration of the people’s will.” He compared recent presidential elections in Senegal and South Africa with Nigeria’s celebration, describing it as another example of deception.
Obidigbo highlighted the parallels between the annulled 1993 election and recent events on February 25, 2023. “The annulment of the 1993 election was not different from rigged or violent elections. When will Nigerians truly say they elect their leaders?” he questioned.
In the Southeast, Obidigbo pointed out that elections often serve as opportunities for external forces to impose leaders. “This undemocratic program, starting from Anambra State and manifesting in Imo State, defines elections in the zone,” he said.
Obidigbo, who contested the 2013 Anambra State governorship poll, criticized the marginalization of the Igbo in the Southeast. He expressed concerns over the treatment of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. “Instead of dialogue, Kanu faced coercive treatments and a forced rendition from Kenya,” Obidigbo lamented.
During a conversation session in Awka, Obidigbo shared his disappointment with the Federal Government’s lack of action on General Yakubu Gowon’s promise of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration for the Eastern Region. He believes the region still faces an economic blockade similar to that during the civil war.
Obidigbo acknowledged that some do not support secession, but young people and IPOB are unhappy with the policy of marginalization against the Igbo. “IPOB’s agitation brought attention to the Southeast, both from allies and enemies,” he noted.
He also addressed the violence and bloodshed in Igbo land, attributing it to false-flag operations and fifth columnists exploiting IPOB’s referendum demands to cause mayhem. “The Nigerian state behaves as if isolating the Igbo is the best policy for unity,” Obidigbo stated.
As an elder statesman, Obidigbo felt compelled to voice his concerns. “Igbo have adopted a stance of vigilance, recognizing the common resentment of them in Nigeria,” he said, quoting Chinua Achebe’s work, There Was a Country.
Obidigbo’s stance is clear: June 12 should be a day to reflect on the unfulfilled promises of democracy in Nigeria. The focus should be on addressing the systemic issues and ensuring true democratic practices are upheld. The ongoing marginalization and political manipulation in the Southeast highlight the need for a more inclusive and fair political system in Nigeria.
Source: The Guardian
