Elder statesman Chike Obidigbo has commended the recent declaration by northern leaders regarding the potential division of Nigeria, calling it a significant development. This remark follows a statement from Prof. Ango Abdullahi, a respected northern leader, who suggested that Nigeria’s amalgamation has run its course and proposed exploring separate paths for the country’s regions.
Obidigbo noted that this call for separation reflects a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history, particularly in light of escalating tensions against the Igbo community from influential figures in both the North and Southwest. He noted that recent nationwide protests have resurfaced longstanding issues that have plagued Nigeria, exposing the superficiality of its purported unity.
In his statement, Obidigbo expressed his belief that the current forced union of Nigeria is a ticking time bomb. He warned that failure to address the underlying issues in a civil manner could lead to catastrophic consequences.
“I was intrigued by Prof. Abdullahi’s remarks, especially coming shortly after a Yoruba group’s call to expel the Igbo from Lagos and the Southwest,” Obidigbo said. “This situation underscores that Nigeria’s current framework is no longer viable.”
Obidigbo agreed with Prof. Abdullahi’s assessment but maintained his view that Nigeria, with its complex and diverse demographics, is too vast for effective governance by a single leader. He criticized the lack of adequate leadership qualities and integrity among African leaders, which he believes undermines the nation’s ability to manage such a large and diverse entity successfully.
He pointed out that the recent protests have revealed deep fractures within the country, exacerbated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s attempts to frame his mandate as a South-centric initiative. This, Obidigbo argued, has further strained relations between the South and North.
“The protests have highlighted that the alliance between Tinubu’s Southwest supporters and the North is fracturing,” Obidigbo observed. “Attempts to unite the South have been undermined by past exclusions and ongoing political maneuvering.”
Obidigbo also reflected on how the exclusion of the Southeast from political consideration, despite their significant contributions, has contributed to current discontent. He noted that Prof. Abdullahi’s recent statements suggest a growing acknowledgment in the North of the need to reevaluate Nigeria’s unity.
Obidigbo criticized the persistent marginalization of the Igbo and the broader failures of the Nigerian political system.
“It is apparent that the northern leaders, who once supported Southwest dominance, are now regretting their decisions as they face the consequences of supporting a presidency that left other regions marginalized,” Obidigbo said.
“The time has come for a serious discussion on how to address the fragmentation of Nigeria in a manner that ensures justice and equity for all regions.”
