‘Return Nigeria to regionalism’ OPC urges President Buhari

On Friday, the Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to return Nigeria to regionalism before the 2023 general election.

OPC stated this in a communique issued at the end of its first meeting held at the group’s Secretariat (Oodua House) in Lagos. The communique was signed by its General Secretary, Mr Babajide Tanimowo.

Expressing worry over the state of the nation, OPC also urged President Buhari to use the remaining months of his eight-year administration to solve the problem associated with rising insecurity and the dwindling fortunes of the country.

The communique reads: “This is the most critical moment of Buhari’s administration, where he needs to be honest with himself, especially, on issues of insecurity and the failing structure of this country.

“Whether you call it restructuring or regionalism, the President must make certain decisions to save Nigeria from this misdirection. That is why it is key and expedient for President Muhammadu Buhari to return Nigeria to regionalism before the 2023 elections.”

The group, which warned initiators of a purported mega accord of 57 socio-cultural groups and organisations backing pro restructuring southwest presidency, insisted that OPC under Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams was not in accord with any group.

It said: “We have made our position known to the media that we are not in any accord with any group. However, we will not take it lightly with any individual or group that uses OPC’s name for political purposes as the 2023 elections draw nearer.”

While urging Southwest governors to synergise and give the Southwest Security Network, better known as Operation Amotekun, the necessary support, OPC restated its support for Amotekun, including Southwest Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG), other local security outfits in the region. They added that the security of the southwest is key to the region’s progress.

VANG/Suzan O.