…By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the last election, Peter Obi, has provided an explanation for his inability to speak at a book launch in Port Harcourt on Friday, May 26, 2023.
The event was the presentation of a book titled “Witness to Reconciliation: My Personal Journey Towards Reconciliation in Ogoni Land,” authored by the respected Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Mathew Kukah.
While several dignitaries were given the opportunity to address the audience, Obi found himself unable to do so due to a protocol mix-up.
In a statement on Twitter, Obi revealed that he declined to speak after former President Olusegun Obasanjo had already delivered his address.
He explained that he attended the event to emphasize the crucial importance of reconciliation processes in Nigeria, particularly in the South-South region.
Obi stressed that issues such as the environmental degradation experienced by the Ogoni people and unfulfilled promises in the South-South and the entire nation have led to deep-seated mistrust, agitations, civil unrest, and tribal divisions.
Urgent attention and reconciliation are necessary to address these challenges.
Expressing gratitude to Bishop Kukah for his efforts in compiling the book, Obi called on the government to prioritize reconciliation, peaceful dispute resolution, and the promotion of national unity and development.
He highlighted the need for sustained efforts in addressing the grievances and concerns of the people in order to achieve lasting peace and progress in Nigeria.