In this season of elections in Nigeria, former Nigerian finance minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, 64, has relayed a message to all from her 90-year old father, the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Prof Chukwuka Okonjo, and it is thought-provoking.
Sharing a lovely photo of herself with her parents, the International development expert wrote:
“Proud that my father, Prof Chukwuka Okonjo the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, and my mother, Prof Kamene Okonjo, exercised their right to vote at ages 90 and 88 respectively. The Obi enjoined all Nigerians to be peaceful saying:”
According to the economist, her father has enjoined Nigerians to remain peaceful and tolerant of one another saying, no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere of violence and political bitterness. The nonagenarian stated in addition that Nigeria is our only country and we have a responsibility to make it peaceful for all.
“The reports of pockets of violence in parts of the country are worrisome and unacceptable. As citizens of one nation, we need to tolerate one another irrespective of our diverse political interests.”
“Nigeria is our only country and we have a responsibility to make it a peaceful and prosperous nation. Great countries were built by patriotic citizens who believe in the unity of their nation. No meaningful dev can be achieved in an atmosphere of violence & political bitterness”
“We are all Nigerians and what should be uppermost in our minds is the progress and greatness of our nation. This greatness can only be achieved when we live together in peace and unity without minding our political differences.”
“Today, I have come to cast my vote because I believe in the Nigerian project. I want a united Nigeria where every citizen would have a sense of belonging. As a nation, we want a leader that will have the interest of our nation at heart. My concern is for a better Nigeria.”
“Let us eschew political bitterness and remember that Nigeria is our only country and we have a responsibility to make it peaceful for all.”
