Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has dismissed claims of having Igbo heritage, stating that such assertions only amuse him. He emphasized that no Nigerian should be excluded from any part of the country, regardless of cultural differences, as “we all own this country together.”
Obasanjo made these remarks while receiving the leadership of the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association, a coalition of major market leaders in Lagos State, at the boardroom of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta on Thursday.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo briefly addressed the paternity claim, saying, “It just makes me laugh.”
The former President acknowledged that the group’s visit was to seek his support for the development of the Owerri Central Market, which is intended to be a standout market in Nigeria. He mentioned that discussions about this market have been ongoing since the creation of Imo State but have yet to materialize. However, he expressed optimism that this time it would become a reality and noted the governor’s keen interest and involvement in the project.
“but, I am glad it is coming up again and I hope this time, we are all going to make it real. It is going to be big, the first of its kind.
“And, I am also happy that the governor is showing the desired interest and understanding. And, I am confident that the Owerri Central Market will be, as he expressed the desire to lead the marketing team for the market.
“Having ensured that the Yorubas, Igbos and Hausas all came together to fight the war of unity in Nigeria, and “not to fight Igbos to go, but to come. So if anybody says to me, that somebody should leave any place, he will be the one to leave” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Emeka Emmanuel read a letter signed by leaders Chinedu Ukatu and Iwuchukwu Ezenwafor, describing the proposed market as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. Emmanuel assured Obasanjo of the group’s commitment to contributing to the market’s success and the nation’s growth. He also sought the former President’s assistance in helping members secure loans to purchase shops and spaces within the market, noting that the project would provide significant employment opportunities and take many people off the streets.