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Is the Southeast Prepared to Wrestle the Nigerian Presidency in 2023?

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5 years ago

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“Fortunately or not, democracy dictates that electorates must select from those that have presented themselves to govern.” ―Ebuka Onyekwelu

With just a few months left before the 2023 presidential election takes the centre stage, the Southeast is yet to boldly move towards securing the tickets of major political parties in Nigeria. By the Southeast, I am talking about Igbo political leaders who are members of these parties and who have the precise capacity to match candidates from other regions who are already traversing the length and breadth of Nigeria courageously asking for people’s support ahead of 2023. With the exception of Prof. Kingsley Moghalu of ADC likely to become Nigeria’s third force, there has not been any seriousness by those interested in running for the highest office in Nigeria from the Southeast, to own the project.

In the APC for instance, the likes of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, Sen. Rochas Okorocha, Sen. Chris Ngige, Sen. Ken Nnamani, and many others, none of them has shown as much courage or seriousness through their outreach and consultation for the big job. They all seem not to be sure, so basically hiding behind the scene and while still claiming to be running for the presidency; perhaps bidding time. In the PDP, Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa, Sen. Pius Anyim, and others have expressed intentions to contest. Yet, there have not been formidable engagements from them towards the project, which can favourably compete with what their counterparts in other parts of the country are doing. Peter Obi to the disappointment of many is hiding under some cover, like he is not interested and he is one of the best hands for this project for Ndi Igbo, in PDP.

Looking at what is currently happening in the PDP and APC as far as the demand for Igbo presidency is concerned, one sees that the likes of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu and Sen. Rochas Okorocha who are better positioned in national politics for consensus around Igbo presidency project, do not enjoy favourable rating at home. But then, Peter Obi and his likes, for instance, who have massive political capital at home are nowhere to be seen. Instead, Sen. Ohuabunwa who is barely known across ranks in the Southeast is the one boldly carrying this project for the Southeast, in Peter Obi’s party. There is definitely something incredibly ridiculous when a people are left for its political interest to be defended by those that cannot match the quality of individuals others are filling or that are filling themselves to represent their own region or people group. Fortunately or not, democracy dictates that electorates must select from those that have presented themselves to govern.

Southeast political players have continued to rely on the fact that in Southern Nigeria, it is only Southeast that is yet to take a short at the presidency. But in politics, no one listens to this kind of tale except statesmen. Politicians go to their trenches, canvas, and consult to acquire state power. While the Southeast has a case in equity, politics, and acquisition of political power cares less about who has not had a short because nobody has said that you should not try to have a short. But then, it may appear as if this is the best opportunity for a Nigerian president of Igbo extraction. Yet, even the opportunity means nothing if Igbo national political players are not prepared to take full advantage of it. Already, there seems to be a consensus on the propriety of an Igbo man becoming the next president of Nigeria, ironically, those expected to fly the flag from the two major political parties have not shown or demonstrated any commitment towards taking advantage of the season. Perhaps, relying almost exclusively on the assumption that it will be “given” to them, but a gift like power is never given because everybody wants it just as much or as badly as anyone else.

In fact, if they continue in this direction, then, realizing Nigeria’s president of Igbo origin will again become a mere mirage.

Dr. Bukola Saraki a former governor of Kwara state and a former president of the senate has just declared his intention to run for president on the platform of PDP. The advantage is that those who have come out openly and made their intentions known will have an advantage in the contest except there is a consensus later. So what Igbo politicians in the APC and PDP are doing, is clearly not in the political interest of Ndi Igbo. In fact, if they continue in this direction, then, realizing Nigeria’s president of Igbo origin will again become a mere mirage.

At this stage, we are still not clear who is running. So there is no consensus of support in the Southeast just yet. However, with what is happening, key players from the Southeast and across the country will align with different contenders that fit their fancy and this only cast unimaginable aspersion on the Igbo presidency project. As of now, with what reality we have on the ground, the only clear option for realizing Igbo presidency is through Prof. Moghalu’s ADC because, he is out and has declared his intentions as well as prepared for the job, and he also enjoys credible national perception. The only challenge is if his ADC can stand the big two in any national political contest. This is a major problem confronting the ADC and its likely presidential candidate, Prof. Kinsley Moghalu. The import of this is that even with Prof. Kingsley Moghalu as the only presidential candidate of Igbo extraction, candidates of other regions if presented to Nigerian voters on PDP and APC platforms, will be preferred over a quality candidate of a lesser political party.

This pattern of political behavior will take years of enlightenment and steady improvement in the level of civic consciousness of the populace, to be truncated. Worst still, Igbo voters and politicians will be far more eager to align and support candidates of other political parties than supporting their own who is running on the platform of a smaller party. But the option before Ndi Igbo is crystal clear; pursue with both hands, the tickets of the two major political parties to secure them. Or align and produce a president in the person of Prof. Kinsley Moghalu on the platform of ADC. In fact, Igbo political leaders can as well create or adapt their own platform if there is no space for them and then build their own platform as a tool for their own national political ambition. Although the last option may not secure the required result in 2023, at least, a date would be fixed on the ambition, and with the right efforts, it will be realized perhaps, after 2023.

What is unfortunate is the current lukewarm approach and the not-too-sure, unserious pursuit of this ambition. It is almost certain that Ndi Igbo will miss it again with this approach, except certain people are patriotic enough to bury their ambitions and reach for a consensus candidate of Igbo origin in APC or PDP. The depth is this kind of personal sacrifice is extremely high because if Tinubu sacrifices his presidential ambition for 2023, he most likely will never run for president again. Besides, he has the momentum now. So in all, it is a huge sacrifice of which is doubtful if any politician that understands his mettle will make. Then again, if Atiku steps down and supports, for instance, Peter Obi as a consensus candidate of the PDP, he may not contest again, and this is not only his likely last chance but also his likely best chance to win. And so the price is too high for any politician to pay. That is why it is un-political to play by the sidelines hoping that there will be a consensus because people already agree that it is only an Igbo man that has not been president since 1999.

Igbo leaders, political and otherwise, must articulate and strategically pursue Igbo interests in the 2023 presidential election. They can as well begin the process of producing an Igbo Nigerian president in 2027 or even 2031. This is better than leaving a people’s political future to chance.

♦ Ebuka Onyekwelu, strategic governance exponent,  is a columnist with the WAP

 

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Education

Professor Josephine Onyido Earns Prestigious Nigerian Academy of Education Induction

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4 weeks ago

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September 26, 2026

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University of Port Harcourt scholar will be inducted into Nigeria’s apex education academy in Abuja, marking another milestone in a career spanning teaching, research, leadership, mentorship and advocacy

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Professor Josephine Azuka Onyido, an accomplished scholar and academic leader at the University of Port Harcourt, will be inducted into the Nigerian Academy of Education on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in recognition of her contributions to the advancement of education.

The ceremony, scheduled for the Conference Hall of the National Commission for Colleges of Education in Abuja, places Onyido among scholars recognized for sustained contributions to education, research, and academic development in Nigeria.

A Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations at the University of Port Harcourt, Onyido has built a career encompassing teaching, research, administration, mentorship, curriculum development, and institutional service.

She described the forthcoming recognition as both an honor and a renewed obligation to education. “I receive this recognition with profound gratitude and humility. My journey in education has always been driven by the belief that scholarship must extend beyond the classroom and contribute meaningfully to society. This induction is not simply a personal achievement; it strengthens my responsibility to continue advancing quality education, mentoring future scholars, and promoting opportunities for women and girls. I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, students, and everyone who has been part of this journey.”

Onyido earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education (English), a Master of Education, and a Ph.D. in Sociology of Education. She is also a permanent member of the University of Port Harcourt Senate. Her scholarly record includes more than 90 journal articles, book chapters and Sociology of Education Made Easy, a textbook developed to make concepts in the discipline more accessible to students.

Much of her research examines the intersection of education and society, with particular emphasis on gender, women’s empowerment, educational development, social justice and the rights of women and girls. Her work advocates translating academic research into policies and practices that expand educational opportunities and strengthen human-capital development.

Beyond research, Onyido has occupied several academic leadership positions. She served as Acting Head of the Department of Educational Foundations from 2021 to 2023 and has worked as the Departmental Coordinator of Postgraduate Programs, the Anti-Plagiarism Coordinator, the Academic Adviser, and the Editor of the Port Harcourt Journal of Education Studies.

Her influence also extends beyond her university. She has served as an external examiner for several institutions and has participated as a resource person for the National Teachers’ Institute, the University of Port Harcourt, the Centers for Higher Education and Sandwich Programs, and the National Universities Commission verification exercise.

Internationally, Onyido represented the Niger Delta Development Commission at the African Women in Leadership Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, expanding her engagement with issues of women’s leadership, empowerment, and social transformation.

She belongs to several professional organizations, including the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, the Association of Sociologists of Education of Nigeria, and the International Association for Gender Equity.

Her academic and community work have earned numerous recognitions, including the Millennium Development Ambassador Award, Lecturer of the Year, Outstanding Project Supervisor, and Professional Service awards.

Yet Onyido’s story also reaches deeply into heritage and service. She is the great-great-granddaughter of King Josiah Constance Ockiya, MINGI VII, Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom and Supreme King of Brass. Her great-grandfather, Rev. Daniel Ockiya, translated the Bible into the Nembe language.

A committed Catholic and Jerusalem pilgrim, she has also served in church and community leadership positions and was recognized by the Catholic Women Organization of the Port Harcourt Diocese as a “Quintessential Woman.”

For Onyido, the November 4 induction represents more than another distinction on an extensive academic résumé. It recognizes a career built around an enduring principle: education achieves its greatest value when knowledge is transformed into opportunity, service, and social progress.

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Houston

PCNI Elevates Chief Dr. Emmanuel Opara to Patron in Historic Ihiagwa Investiture

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4 weeks ago

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September 26, 2026

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Sugar Land People’s Club leaders celebrate their First Vice Chairman’s December 22 investiture, describing the honor as recognition of leadership, scholarship, service, and commitment to the enduring ideals of the People’s Club

HOUSTON, TEXAS — All roads will lead to Ihiagwa, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, on December 22, 2026, as members, associates, and well-wishers of People’s Club of Nigeria International gather for the Patronship Investiture of Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Uzoma Opara, First Vice Chairman of the Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI).

The ceremony will mark another milestone for the Sugar Land branch, historically recognized within the organization as its First International Branch, and will elevate one of its senior officers into the distinguished circle of PCNI patrons.

Since its inception in 1971, the People’s Club of Nigeria has developed into an international social and philanthropic organization with branches in Nigeria, the United States, and Europe. Its tradition emphasizes fellowship, community service, and the principles of Love, Unity, and Service.

Within that tradition, patronship carries significance beyond a ceremonial title. Patrons are expected to serve as senior advisers, custodians of institutional values, and respected voices in sustaining the organization’s heritage and direction. The recognition is traditionally associated with sustained service, leadership, and commitment to the Club and society.

For Opara, the honor also recognizes a professional life extending far beyond community leadership.

An academic and technology specialist, Opara’s scholarly interests span cybersecurity, digital and media forensics, artificial intelligence, and Agentic AI. His research includes digital forensic investigation, incident response and threat analysis, memory analysis, advanced-adversary containment and intrusion detection, including applications of Python programming.

His work also engages with memory forensics and investigative technologies, as well as the offensive and defensive dimensions of cybersecurity, commonly characterized as Red Team and Blue Team operations.

Opara is a Fellow of the International Information Management Association (FIIMA) and serves as an Associate Editor of the Journal of International Technology and Information Management (JITIM).

Reflecting on the forthcoming investiture, Opara described the recognition as a responsibility rather than simply another distinction.

“I receive this honor with profound gratitude and humility. Patronship represents a responsibility to protect the values that have sustained People’s Club for generations: love, unity, service, and genuine fellowship. Whatever we achieve professionally becomes more meaningful when we use our knowledge, experience, and resources to strengthen our communities and create opportunities for others. I look forward to serving the Club at an even greater level.”

Grand Patron of SLPCNI, Hon. Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu, said Opara’s elevation reflects the leadership qualities expected of those entrusted with preserving the organization’s legacy. “Chief Dr. Opara represents the combination of intellectual accomplishment, community service, and organizational commitment that the People’s Club should continue to encourage. Patronship is not merely about recognition; it carries an obligation to guide, support and protect the institution. We are proud that another leader from our Sugar Land family has earned this important honor.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman of SLPCNI, said the investiture demonstrates the depth of leadership within the Sugar Land branch. “This is a proud moment for Sugar Land People’s Club. Chief Dr. Opara has distinguished himself through service, scholarship, and dedication to our organization. His investiture strengthens our branch while reinforcing our connection to the national and international People’s Club family. We congratulate him and look forward to celebrating with him in Ihiagwa.”

The December gathering is expected to draw PCNI leaders, patrons, members, family, friends, and community representatives from Nigeria and abroad. Beyond the pageantry of the ceremony, however, Opara’s investiture carries a broader institutional message: leadership within the People’s Club is ultimately measured by service.

On December 22, Ihiagwa will host the celebration. But for Sugar Land, the occasion will also be a celebration of one of its own—a scholar, technology professional, and community leader entering a new chapter of responsibility in the People’s Club tradition.

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Houston

Membership Surge Continues as Dr. Nkem Ugwu Joins People’s Club

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1 month ago

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September 20, 2026

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Following a successful induction ceremony, the First International Branch continues to attract new members drawn to its tradition of friendship, service, culture, and community

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS — The Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI) is continuing its membership expansion following its recently concluded induction ceremony, with Dr. Nkem Ugwu becoming one of the latest community members to join the organization.

Ugwu, a Sugar Land resident originally from Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria, is an entrepreneur and mother of three sons, a mother-in-law, and a grandmother. She describes service to others, family, and community engagement as important parts of her personal and professional life.

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu addressing the September Conference of the Sugar Land PCNI

Her membership comes on the heels of the branch’s successful bi-annual induction ceremony, during which 16 new members were formally sworn in by PCNI National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke. The celebration attracted national leaders, patrons, and members representing branches from across the People’s Club network.

Photo from left: Hon. Chief Sir Michael Okeke; Hon. Anaeto Okakpu “Oranwezuluaku”; Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu; Hon. Dr. Nkem Ugwu ; Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman; Hon. Chief, Sir Basil Mbuba; Hon. Chief Sir Dr. Uche Egbuchuam “Akudo World Wide.”

Ugwu said joining the organization provides an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships while contributing to its mission.

“I am truly excited and honored to join the prestigious People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugar Land Branch. I look forward to getting to know fellow members, building lasting friendships, and becoming actively involved in this vibrant and welcoming community. I am especially drawn to the Club’s tradition of fellowship, service, and mutual support, and I hope to contribute my experience, energy, and passion for serving others to its continued growth.”

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu welcomed Ugwu, describing continued interest in membership as encouraging for the historic First International Branch.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe and Hon. Ndidi Chidume

“When people of accomplishment and community spirit continue to identify with our organization, it tells us that the values upon which People’s Club was built remain relevant. We welcome Dr. Ugwu and look forward to the experience and fellowship she brings to our family.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman, said the branch’s recent induction helped showcase an organization that continues to combine Nigerian cultural heritage with community engagement in Houston.

“Our successful induction created tremendous enthusiasm, but our focus goes beyond ceremonies. We are building a stronger organization rooted in friendship, responsibility and service. Dr. Ugwu’s decision to join reflects that continuing momentum.”

One of the meeting hosts, Hon. Professor Keih George, introduces the co-meeting hosts.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe said the branch remains interested in individuals prepared to participate actively in its programs and fellowship.

“Membership is about belonging, but it is equally about participation and contribution. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ugwu and other prospective members who share the principles and aspirations of People’s Club.”

For SLPCNI, the growing interest following its induction represents another chapter in the evolution of a branch with a special place in the organization’s history.

And for Ugwu, it marks the beginning of a new journey—one centered on friendship, community, and service.

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