Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The presidential candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Yabagi Yusuf Sani, has observed that South-East geo-political zone is still being marginalised by the Federal Government.
Sani who made the observation in Umuahia while flagging off his presidential campaign, regretted that the people of South-East were still being excluded in the scheme of things despite their numerous contributions in the national economy.
He accused the All Progressives Congress, APC-led Federal Government of taking the endemic marginalisation against Ndigbo to the extreme.
”I am saying this with all sense of responsibility, the people of South-East have been pushed to the wall and I do believe that when you give people equal opportunity in their country, believe you me, they will work for that country as if there is no tomorrow.
”So if we make this country to belong to all of us, if we do not discriminate because of tribe, religion or language you speak, this country is the promise of greatness.”
Sani said that but for Igb land and Lagos State, Nigeria would have been “a dormant country”..
He extolled the resilience, ingenuity and enterprising spirit of the Igbo nation who he, noted, is the spice of Nigeria.
“Apart from Igbo and perhaps, Lagos, the rest of the country, it seems, are sleeping,” Sani said.
The ADP presidential flag bearer promised to make Aba a major industrial hub in Africa if voted into power.
He assured that Aba artisans and entrepreneurs would been given adequate attention by his Government.
“We have seen what is happening in China, Malaysia and we can make Aba a huge economic hub. We will build this nation economically by encouraging the manufacturing sector.”
Blaming disregard for the rule of law as Nigeria’s major challenge, Sani promised to enthrone and promote the rule of law if voted into power.
“Under ADP government everyone in Nigeria will be treated according to the provisions of the law irrespective of the part of the country the person comes from or the religion he belongs,” he said.
According to him, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu would not have remained in detention indefinitely after being freed by court if the Nigeria Government had respect for rule of law.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-presidential candidate, Dr Okey Udo, solicited the support of Abia voters for ADP in the 2023 general election.
He said that ADP would do things differently for the good of all, adding that Abia and the Igbo nation would not be sidelined under the ADP administration.
In their respective speeches, the governorship candidate of Abia ADP, Hon Jonas Chibuike Okafor; and the State Chairman, Deacon Benjamin Arisa, predicted victory for the party.
Highlight of the rally was the presentation of flags to various candidates of the party.
The rally was attended by party faithful and supporters from different parts of the state.
