2011: IGBO GROUP CALLS FOR ADOPTION OF TRUE FEDERALISM

The Igbo Redemption Group on Wednesday said that Nigeria's democracy would be strengthened, if the country adopted true federalism based on equality of zones.

The group led by a Lagos-based lawyer, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN); Chief Rex Onyeabo, Orji Nwafor Orizu and Ambassador Aja Nwachukwu, stated this in a statement in Abuja.

In the statement by its Media Coordinator, Mr. Delly Ajufo, the ITG said the Igbo had endured years of injustice and marginalisation.

The group added that the present clamour for the Presidency in Nigeria would not be achieved by coercion or bullying by any group.

According to the group, candidates will be considered based on principles of true federalism consisting of the centre, six geo-political zones and states as the federating units.

It said, 'Fiscal federalism based on the principle of derivation and equality of the zones is the essence of democratic Nigeria. There should be equal number of states among the six geo-political zones to guarantee fairness and justice in the allocation of our God given resources.'

The group added that only President Goodluck Jonathan had the moral right and the credential to seek the Presidency in 2011.

It said, 'We can't work on sentiments or emotions. Certain policies have to be debated and the personalities who have the best credentials should be supported.

'If any of the aspirants is to be tested, it should be President Jonathan because others have been there before. We have seen their best and their performance led us to where we are now.'

It advised the President to continue to tackle some of the nation's problems. The group added, 'His intervention funds in aviation and manufacturing sectors of the economy are beginning to yield positive results.

'He has yielded to the needs of the Police and Armed Forces as well as other security agencies coupled with the appointment of Prof. Attahiru Jega as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.'