The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its former Presidential candidate, former vice president Atiku Abubakar have sent a congratulatory messages to former Nigeria Ambassador to the United States, Prof. George Obiozor, on his election as the President-General of the Ohaneze Ndigbo.
In a statement released on Monday by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, the party described Obiozor as a seasoned administrator, excellent diplomat and courageous nationalist.
Ologbondiyan also described him as a firm voice in the fight for the entrenchment of democratic tenets of the rule of law, social justice, equity, fairness, mutual respect, true federalism and a credible electoral process in Nigeria.
He extolled the leaders and the people of the South East for their demonstrable democratic credentials in the successful election of a new leadership of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization.
Also, he commended the choice of Obiozor to lead the Ohaneze Ndigbo at a critical time in the history of the nation.
He urged Obiozor to use his new assignment to further rally compatriots in the collective determination to rescue the nation and return her to the path of peace.
He also urged Obiozor to rally his compatriots for national cohesion; mutual respect; adherence to the rule of law; social justice; credible elections; economic prosperity; and political stability.
Ologbondiyan also urged the new leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo to continue on the path of success already laid by successive leadership of the organisation.
He further commended the out-gone leadership of the Ohaneze Ndigbo, led by Chief John Nwodo, for a very fruitful tenure.
On his part, Atiku Abubakar released a statement on Tuesday, saying: “Yesterday, I spoke with Prof. George Obiozor, newly elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. I congratulated him on his election.
“I am elated that the process that led to his election and that of the new executive was concluded in line with established democratic tenets.
“Like many, who have followed with keen interest the goings-on, I had wondered how the group will pull through the process of the election and still come out unscathed and still remain a cohesive and strong force with its integrity intact.
“By the outcome of this election, Ndigbo have not only proved the pundits wrong but have shown that they are real democrats.”
Atiku stated that he had known Prof Obiozor since his days as Director-General of Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, and a one-time Ambassador of Nigeria to the United States of America, Israel and Cyprus.
The former vice-president noted that he can attest to Obiozor’s brilliance, wisdom, experience, and qualities that will come to bear as he pilots the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Atiku added that: “I also take note of the “big shoes” left behind by Obiozor’s predecessor, Chief Nnia Nwodo, who elevated Ohanaeze Ndigbo to enviable heights such that he was appointed as the Coordinator of all the notable socio-cultural groups in the country.
“I know that Obiozor will tap into his experience and the networks he had built to further push the group to higher heights.
“My prayer is that God should grant Obiozor the needed wisdom, strength, boldness, strong character, good health, protection, candour, maturity and capacity for the assignment.
“All eyes are on you to see the value you will bring to the table especially as it concerns the reconciliation of the groups and individuals who felt offended by the outcome and process leading to your election.
“They should be brought back to the fold and fully integrated for the sake of harmonious relationship between members of the group in particular and Ndigbo in general.
However, Atiku urged Obiozor to sustain and improve upon the cooperation between Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other ethnic-social groups across the country to ensure that the unity of Nigeria is stronger and that peace reigns across the country.
“My mind tells me that you have the interpersonal skills and enough group dynamics experience for the job and to weather the storm.
“I will keep praying for you and your management team. Once again congratulations,” Atiku added.
