Table of Contents
- Youth Wing Response
- Abdullahi's Remarks
- Ohanaeze Youths' Stand
- Ugwuanyi's Political Legacy
- Conclusion
The youth wing of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has strongly criticized the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi, for his verbal attack on former Enugu governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
During an appearance on Arise TV earlier this week, Abdullahi claimed that Ugwuanyi's political influence had waned in Enugu State.
He further alleged that the former governor had reduced himself to a personal assistant to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, essentially carrying a bag for him.
However, these assertions were met with disapproval from the Ohanaeze youths, who questioned the basis of Abdullahi's “baseless attacks on Ugwuanyi.”
In a statement from the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, he accused Abdullahi of either experiencing selective amnesia or intentionally ignoring Ugwuanyi’s political strength in Enugu State.
Okwu noted that “Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, during his tenure as governor of Enugu State, achieved the highest percentage of votes ever recorded in the state during his second term election in 2019.
“His victory percentage is a record that may be difficult for anyone to surpass in the state in the future.
“The fact that His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, is a gentleman and has maintained that demeanor does not diminish his political acumen and popularity in Enugu State.
“Two years after leaving office, Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu) continues to be highly regarded and admired by the people.
“Thus, it is illogical and unfounded for the PDP spokesperson to assert that Ugwuanyi's influence has waned.”
Okwu further stated that the PDP spokesperson’s frustration arises from Ugwuanyi’s defection to the APC, alongside Governor Peter Mbah.
“We understand the source of his anger; the PDP is lamenting the loss of such prominent figures to the APC.
“However, the party is responsible for its own issues; it must face the consequences of neglecting the South-East despite relying on its support over the years.
“The PDP can cry all it wants; it will not change the situation. We stand firmly behind Ugwuanyi and Mbah for leaving the party.
“We also reaffirm our confidence in Ugwuanyi as a leader, with whom we are very pleased,” Okwu concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi's claim about Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi?
Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi claimed that Ugwuanyi's political influence has diminished and that he has reduced himself to a personal assistant for Nyesom Wike.
How did the Ohanaeze youths respond to Abdullahi's comments?
The Ohanaeze youths criticized Abdullahi's remarks, labeling them as baseless and questioning his understanding of Ugwuanyi's political strength in Enugu State.
What legacy did Ugwuanyi leave during his time as governor?
Ugwuanyi recorded the highest percentage of votes in Enugu State during his second term election in 2019, a record that may be challenging for future candidates to surpass.
