A socio-political pressure group known as Ndi-Igbo United Forum (NUF) has frowned on the Minister for Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige’s assertion that Igbos can only show readiness to take over the Presidency come 2023 when they join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking in Awka, Anambra State capital, the NUF President General, Chief Godson Ezenagu, said that zoning enthrones peace, tranquility and development, adding that Igbo politicians are more qualified and positioned to transform the country for good if given the opportunity.

He said: “Our people are marketable and experienced. An Igbo man can contest and win Presidential seat anywhere in Africa, Europe or even Asian countries. Why can’t we have the same opportunity in our own country?

“If our brother, Senator Ngige, is not ready to present himself for the office, we have other men and women of timber and calibre who are ready for it. He should go ahead to canvass members in his party, while allowing others to do same.

“In 1999, Nigerians placated the South West by presenting two Presidential candidates from the zone. One of them, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo eventually won. Nigerians also placated the South South by giving massive support to former President Goodluck Jonathan. Zone is very important in all we do even in family. Zoning will fizzle out every agitation in the South East.”

Ezenagu enjoined political parties in Nigeria to zone their 2023 Presidential ticket to the South East zone in the principle of equity, natural justice and good conscience.

The NUF President also urged Igbos to develop more interest in national politics while making known their aspiration across all political divide.