Former National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, has said Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and Works Minister Dave Umahi cannot match Peter Obi’s political record and standing.
Awuzie made the statement while speaking with journalists in Owerri, Imo State, against the backdrop of recent criticisms of Obi by the two politicians.
He urged Soludo and Umahi to concentrate on their official responsibilities rather than engaging in exchanges over Obi’s record as a former governor of Anambra State.
Awuzie also called on Igbo leaders and the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to intervene in the matter and caution the politicians against what he described as continued attacks on Obi.
He questioned the silence of some Igbo leaders, urging elders in the South-East to provide direction whenever disagreements arise among prominent politicians in the region.
“The patriotic Igbo man is known for speaking out. So, what are our Elders-in-Council in the South-East doing? What about those in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and those in Imeobi of Ohanaeze?
“Why can’t they call Governor Soludo and Engr. Umahi to order? They should tell the duo to leave Obi alone,” he said.
The former ASUU president urged Soludo and Umahi to focus on governance, arguing that their criticisms would not change Obi’s political standing.
“There should be a limit to greed, envy and jealousy. They should face governance; govern well and minister well. They can’t be a match to Obi, no matter how they try to rubbish his credibility. Igbo elders should rise and show leadership,” he said.
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Awuzie also backed Obi’s presidential ambition, describing him as the kind of leader he believes Nigeria needs at this time.
“Obi is a kind of leader Nigeria wants at this point in time. He is a different breed of politician. So, if Nigerians know what is good for them, they should bank on Peter Obi,” he said.
He further dismissed the suggestion that criticism from Tinubu and his supporters could damage Obi’s reputation.
“No matter what Tinubu and his stooges do or say, they will not succeed in putting a dent on the integrity, character and personality of Peter Obi,” Awuzie said.
He described Obi as a model and said many Nigerians, both within and outside the South-East, were proud of him.
“Obi is a model and somebody Ndigbo are proud of and I believe that other Nigerians are also proud of him. This is because, wherever he goes across the country, people troop out to welcome him,” Awuzie added.
