In a recent address, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo spoke out against the exclusion of the Igbo people from the presidency based on their historical attempts to secede from Nigeria. He highlighted that this blame is unjust, as every major ethnic group in Nigeria has, at one time, considered breaking away.

Obasanjo expressed his sadness at the idea that no Igbo individual can rise to the presidency because of their involvement in the January 15, 1966 coup, which disrupted the First Republic. He pointed out that there have been similar secessionist sentiments from other regions in Nigeria.

Speaking during a meeting with the League of Northern Democrats, led by former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, at his library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo recalled the strong movement in the North known as “Araba,” which aimed to separate from Nigeria. He urged that everyone should reconsider their views on this issue.

“It hurts me when people say that because the Igbo tried to secede, they cannot be president. This is nonsense. No region is without its own secessionist thoughts,” he stated.

Obasanjo emphasized the need for unity among Nigerians and called for collaboration to build a stronger country together. He expressed his willingness to support the League of Northern Democrats if they focus on national interests rather than regional identities.

His remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and understanding in Nigeria’s political landscape, urging all ethnic groups to work together for the nation’s future.