Ex-PDP Vice Chairman Nze Ozichukwu Chukwu Criticizes Atiku, Calls for Political Reconciliation

Former National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and South East chairman, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, has strongly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for contesting the 2023 presidential election, arguing that his decision violated the party’s constitution and undermined the expectations of the Igbo community.

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Atiku’s Candidacy a Setback for the Igbo – Chukwu

Chukwu expressed disappointment over Atiku’s decision to run under the PDP platform, calling it a significant betrayal of the South East, a region that has historically supported the party.

The immediate past President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide lamented that many in the region had placed high expectations on Atiku, believing he would uphold fairness and equity. However, his candidacy in 2023 further alienated the Igbo, who had anticipated a power shift in their favor.

In addition to Atiku, Chukwu also criticized former President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, stating that while their constitutional right to contest was unquestionable, they failed to uphold principles of honor and integrity.

“Yes, they have rights. It’s their constitutional right, but those rights are expressible under the context of honor and integrity,” he remarked.

PDP’s Neglect of South East Sparks Discontent

Chukwu further questioned the PDP’s commitment to fairness, pointing out that the South East had remained loyal to the party for decades. However, in 2023, the zone was denied the presidential ticket, leading to widespread discontent among its political leaders and supporters.

He urged South East PDP leaders to reflect on their roles in the marginalization of the region, warning against “putting on bold faces and pretending to be heroes of the Igbo” while ignoring the political reality of exclusion.

Call for National Reconciliation and Inclusion

Beyond the South East, Chukwu emphasized the urgent need for national reconciliation and healing. He pointed out that not just the Igbo, but many other groups in Nigeria feel politically sidelined, socially excluded, and economically vulnerable.

He specifically highlighted the plight of Nigerian youth, who he said have been stigmatized and alienated, despite being the backbone of the country’s future.

“Nigeria needs a leader with character, honor, and integrity—someone guided by historical awareness, not driven by the pathology of the IDP (Internally Displaced Politics) of our tumultuous past,” Chukwu stated.

Warning to APC on Zoning and Power Rotation

In addition to his critique of the PDP, Chukwu also cautioned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against paying lip service to its zoning and power rotation formula. He urged the party to honor its commitments, warning that continued political imbalance could lead to greater disunity and unrest.

A Call for Igbo Political Strategy

Chukwu concluded by encouraging the Igbo people to take charge of their own political and economic destiny. He urged leaders of the PDP to prevent the party from further decline, stressing that Nigeria’s political landscape is at a crucial turning point where leadership must be guided by fairness, inclusion, and integrity.