Edwin Clark, convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the restructuring of Nigeria to ensure its unity, alleging continued discrimination against the South-East region.
In an open letter dated June 13, Clark addressed Tinubu, expressing concern over what he perceives as ongoing injustice towards the Igbo people under Tinubu’s administration.
“Mr. President, even in your administration, the discrimination and injustice against the Igbos have not abated,” Clark wrote, highlighting disparities in ministerial appointments between the South-West and South-East regions.
Clark, a prominent figure from the old Western Region, emphasized the need for national unity through restructuring, citing historical partnerships between regions before the Republics.
“The most recent opportunity the Igbos had to rebuild their broken leg was when their disunity, selfishness, and greed made the popular Igbo candidate, Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party, lose the election,” Clark lamented, urging for post-election unity and a focus on restructuring.
He reiterated the urgency of implementing the 2014 National Conference Report, which contains comprehensive recommendations for restructuring Nigeria across all sectors.
“The Igbos of South-East or wherever they are in Nigeria, must stand up and assert their rights legitimately,” Clark asserted, calling for reciprocal respect and fairness among all Nigerians.
In conclusion, the elder statesman appealed for inclusivity and justice, asserting that all Nigerians, including those from the South-East, deserve a sense of belonging in the country.