Bashir Ahmad, a former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, addressed the misconception that Igbos are systematically excluded from leadership positions in Nigeria.
Ahmad cited historical examples to refute this notion, highlighting that Nnamdi Azikiwe, an Igbo, served as Nigeria’s first President after the country became a republic in 1963. Additionally, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, also an Igbo, assumed the role of the first military head of state following a coup in 1966.
These instances underscore the significant contributions of the Igbo community to Nigeria’s governance, both in civilian and military capacities.
Ahmad’s comments were prompted by a statement from @Solomon_Buchi, suggesting that Nigeria is not unified and advocating for Igbo leadership in the country.
Buchi had posted: “One Nigeria until it’s time for Igbo people to rule Nigeria. Please, Nigeria is not one; it has never been, and I’m beginning to believe that it will never be. Let Igbos be Igbos.”
Responding, the former presidential aide pointed out that Alex Ekwueme was once a Vice President to Shehu Shagari before the military overthrew their government.
Posting on X, Ahmad wrote: “Dr Alex Ekwueme, another Igbo, served as Vice President of Nigeria from 1979 to 1983 under President Shehu Shagari. His position as vice president underscores the continued political involvement of the Igbo in Nigeria.
“Senator Evan Enwerem, who was Igbo, was elected as the President of the Senate in 1999, marking the beginning of the Fourth Republic. This role placed an Igbo at the helm of one of Nigeria’s legislative chambers, highlighting their significant contribution to the country’s democracy.
“If the above submission does not dispel the notion that Igbos are systematically barred from leadership roles in Nigeria, then there is a serious problem.”
