Obasanjo opens up on rumoured Igbo heritage

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says the speculation of his Igbo heritage always amuses him.

In a statement by Kehinde Akinyemi, his special assistant on media, Obasanjo spoke in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital, on Thursday when he met with the leaders of the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association, representing key markets in Lagos state.

There have been rumours alleging that Obasanjo’s father was an Igbo from Anambra state.

However, during his meeting with the Igbo market leaders, the former president responded, “It just makes me laugh”.

Speaking about the group’s mission, Obasanjo said the association sought his backing for the establishment of the Owerri central market in Imo state.

He noted that discussions about the Owerri central market have been ongoing since Imo state was created.

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“I’m pleased to see it moving forward again despite various setbacks, and I hope this time we make it a reality. It’s going to be substantial, the first of its kind,” he said.

Obasanjo also expressed his satisfaction with the involvement of Hope Uzodimma, the governor of Imo, in the process and assured that he would spearhead its success and promotion.

Reaffirming his view that no Nigerian should be displaced from any region, Obasanjo said, “We all share ownership of this nation”.

“During the civil war, the Yorubas, Igbos, and Hausas fought together to preserve Nigeria’s unity, not to drive the Igbos away but to unify the nation,” he added.

“So, if anyone suggests that someone should be removed from any place, that person will be the one to leave.”

While speaking, Emeka Emmanuel, the group’s spokesperson, highlighted the market’s potential to become a centre for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Emmanuel also appealed to Obasanjo for his support in making the international market a reality, which would help reduce street vending.

He noted that Obasanjo’s assistance would be instrumental in helping members of the association secure loans to purchase spaces and shops in the market.