Full Text: Yunusa’s speech at South-East Obidient Movement Symposium
Protocol
Today, November 9th, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in our collective journey. On the 5th of October 2020, while delivering, a lecture at the Women’s Center in Awka, I emphasized the need for a president from the South eastern region of Nigeria. Notable figures like Sen Ben Obi, Late Prof George Obiozor, leader of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo cultural Organization, and Late Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife Governor of Anambra State 1992 – 1993. and other esteemed leaders from the Southeast were in attendance.
Moreover, at that point in time, I couldn’t have imagined that my words would resonate with His Excellency Peter Obi, who had become the champion of our shared vision. It will interest you to note that, the South-eastern Nigeria covers a land area of approximately 29,388 square kilometres. The region comprises five states: which include; Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Abia, and Ebonyi states with 11,498,277 registered voters out of the National total of 96,303,016 cutting across the 21,631 polling units. The zone is crucial to Nigeria’s future.Today as we reflect on our progress, I must mention that our unity is our greatest strength. We must form a formidable force to achieve our common goal: which is a better future for our country thus, our Collective efforts have given birth to the creation of the National Coordinating council of the Obidient Movement, consequently my nomination as the Interim National Coordinator. Therefore, through your support, we are making significant strides, organizing across polling units in the country and engaging with support groups. Our mission is clear: to ensure democratic leadership that serves the people. We’re committed to having leaders who embody this vision, with representatives from each state, senatorial district, local government, ward, and polling unit.As the great Nelson Mandela once said, “The time comes in the life of any nation when there remain only two choices – submit or fight.” We choose to fight for a better Nigeria, where every citizen has equal opportunities for success. But get this straight, we are not calling people to take up arms against the state but rather for a retooling in mindset and a change in attitude that will birth the Nigeria we are all yearning for, from “Consumption to Production” .
The South Eastern region, though systematically isolated, boasts remarkable productivity and resilience. The people of the region are hardworking, well-travelled, and patriotic, always leaving a lasting impact wherever they go.Hence, let’s march forward together, united in our quest for a brighter future.Without further adore I would like to give you a brief glance about the Obidient Movement as a whole.
Since the return to democracy in 1999, and worsened since the APC government came to power, Nigerians have witnessed unprecedented hardship and incompetence especially under the APC-led Administration. The Obidient Movement – a powerful force born out of Nigerian’s desire for change, took it’s bearing in 2020, when some patriotic citizens demanding for good governance, decided to come together and save this country from the current malady.
The movement gained momentum after the 2020 Lekki massacre, where. innocent Nigerian youths were killed, and the government’s subsequent denial of responsibility. This event sparked widespread outrage and fuelled the determination and resolve for a new Nigeria, on a back burner of realising the strength in organising.
The Movement is built on values such as integrity, accountability, inclusivity, justice, and empowerment. Its mission is to empower and mobilize Nigerian Youth to actively engage in the political process, advocate for meaningful change, and hold leaders accountable.
The movement envisions a Nigeria where every citizen has equal opportunities for success, and the government serves with integrity and transparency.
During the 2023 presidential election, young Nigerians sought for a leader who would champion their cause for a change and hold those in power accountable.
That’s when His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi, a person of Impeccable character, integrity and proven track records emerged as the face of the movement.
Obi’s message of hope, unity, and good governance resonated deeply with the youth, who were tired of the status quo.The Obidient Movement represents a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking a better future.
Therefore, Its impact was felt far and beyond the 2023 presidential election, as it continues to inspire a new generation of leaders and citizens committed to creating a just, fair and equitable society.
My dear brothers and sisters of South-eastern Nigeria, there is a saying that says: “Charity begins at home” Here we are today gathered as one people, united in our quest for a better tomorrow. We stand on the shoulders of giants, our ancestors who toiled and laboured to build a foundation for us to thrive. Their sweat, tears, and resilience have brought us to this moment, where we can demand a Nigeria that works for all.We are the sons and daughters of a region known for its hardworking spirit, innovative drive, and unwavering resilience. We are the descendants of warriors who fought for our freedom, who resisted colonialism and oppression. We are the heirs of a rich cultural heritage that values community, solidarity, and collective progress.
Ladies and gentlemen, we are also the victims of a system that has failed us. A system that has denied us justice, equality, and opportunities. A system that has marginalized our voices, exploited our resources, and disregarded our dignity.We must rise and demand a new Nigeria, a Nigeria that reflects our values, our aspirations, and our collective dreams. A Nigeria where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. A Nigeria where our differences are respected, our diversity is celebrated, and our unity is strengthened. A Nigeria where the children of nobody, becomes somebody without knowing anybody.
Our distinguished guests, we must unite across ethnic, religious, and party lines to demand for a better future. We must stand together against injustice, against corruption, and against oppression. We must fight for a Nigeria where every citizen is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.As our proverb goes, “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” Let us not be the grass that suffers. Let us be the giants that rise above the conflicts, divisions, and pettiness.My dear friends, the time for change is now. Let us march forward together, with one voice, one vision, and one purpose. Let us build a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all.As the great Frederick Douglass once said, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did, and it never will”.
Fellow Nigerians, together we can achieve greatness, together, we can build a nation that is the envy of the world; Together, we can create a future that is bright, prosperous, and just for all. Let us rise and take our destiny in our hands by working together as a team and changing the status quo. Let us shape the Nigeria of our dreams, a Nigeria that works for all.
Finally, there is a popular saying that says wherever you go in the world, if there’s no South-easterner presence, run away because prosperity is likely absent. I say this with all sense of patriotism and sincerity: Nigeria needs you just as much as you need Nigeria.
Thank you!
God bless the people of Anambra State!
God bless the South Eastern people!!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!