Ndigbo proved pundits wrong - Atiku congratulates Obiozor

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has congratulated Obiozor on his election as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

In a statement released Tuesday, Atiku said: “Yesterday, I spoke with Prof. George Obiozor, newly elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. I congratulated him on his election.

He further urged cooperation with other ethnic-social groups.

“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 says he has known the one-time Ambassador of Nigeria to the United States, Israel, and Cyprus as well as his time as Director-General of Nigeria Institute of International Affairs.

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, PMNews Nigeria said.

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.