WHEN THE ENEMY IS WITHIN

Nigeria appears poised for an Ibo presidency, with the question now whether the Ibo are prepared for themselves, according to NNAMDI EBO. While exclusion from Nigerian politics has long plagued the Ibo, strides have been made since the end of the civil war in 1970. However, the Ibo's marginalization by their own people remains a significant issue.

Since 1970, the Hausa/Fulani and Yoruba tribes have produced military heads of state and presidents, while the Ibo have not. This has been attributed to a supposed "jinx." This narrative is changing, as the North appears more willing to support an Ibo candidate. A major politician from the North-West and an Ibo politician have agreed to run together for the highest office in the land ahead of the 2027 general election.

Despite this progress, some Ibo themselves are working against their own interests. This breakdown within the Ibo community, known as "crab mentality" or "pulling down their own," is a contradiction to what Peter Obi's candidacy should represent: ethnic and national unification of the South-East with the rest of Nigeria. The Obi-Kwankwaso alliance tests this principle and sets a political example of rotation and unrestrained power sharing. Now the question remains: are the Ibo ready for themselves?