The member representing Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia in the Federal Constituency, Hon. Uche Ekwunife, has described the report published in some newspapers, alleging that Governor Peter Obi is lobbying to be appointed a Minister in President Goodluck Jonathan’s Government, as a piece of “illogicality.” She said this in a press statement made available to the press yesterday in Abuja.

Hon. Ekwunife noted that the publication is credited to a faceless PDP Elders’ Council of no particular relevance in a matter such as this and described those behind the publication as ill-informed, mischief-makers who should educate themselves on the processes and procedures for ministerial appointments. The Hon. Member pointed out, for the record, that nominating people to represent states on the Federal Executive Council is not a party affair at all, as ministers are usually nominated by their states and appointed at the discretion of the President.

According to her, “Recommending those to be appointed as ministers to fill state’s quota is entirely the responsibility of the Governor. It is high time our people stopped commenting on national issues they do not understand, simply because they are afraid of their own shadows.”

Explaining further, Hon. Ekwunife said that Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu the group mentioned as Obi’s appointee, was actually an appointee of the Federal Government and that the Anambra state nominee was Ambassador Emeka Okeke of the Vatican City. She also explained that even Joy Emordi, who is said to be an APGA appointee, had since left the party and joined the PDP – without APGA bringing down the roof on anybody.

Hon. Ekwunife pointed out that Governor Obi has no need to lobby for any position, for several reasons. “Everybody in Nigeria knows that Obi remains one of the most ardent supporters of Mr. President. Just a few days ago, the Governor of Delta State said he could not think of any other Nigerian who supports President Goodluck Jonathan with his mind and soul as Obi does. Most of those raising issues where there are none only raise voices once it has to do with appointments, but when it is working for the State selflessly, they are nowhere to be found,” Ekwunife submitted.

She urged Nigerians remain supportive of the Jonathan administration and counseled those who claim to love or care for the President to extend the same support to him, rather than seek recognition for appointment and personal gain by dabbling into matters they do not really understand.

•Photo shows Governor Obi.

Update news