2015 presidency: Support Jonathan, Anenih appeals to the North

By Moshood Karim O

Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih has appealed to the north to support President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election bid in 2015.

Speaking at the weekend in  Benin at the party’south-south zone “unity rally”, Anenih said the zone had supported and formed successful political alliances with the North in the past, stressing that the current situation calls for reciprocity and cooperation.

Addressing a huge crowd of PDP leaders and faithful  the main bowl of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, he declared, “We have reasons to be proud of the contribution of the South-south to Nigeria’s development.“The zone has over the years, made sacrifices, including supreme sacrifices, not only to keep this country together but also towards its economic development.

“The South-south has, in the past, played a unifying role among the various regions of the country. Our sons and daughters, such as Chief Tony Enahoro, Chief Okotie-Eboh, Mr. Isaac Boro, General David Ejoor, Chief Denis Osadebe, Chief Jereton Mariere, etc., have served this country with great distinction”, reminded the party leader.

He added, “In the political history of Nigeria, the South-south has also been a close ally of the North. We have fought political battles together, contested elections on the same political platforms and formed alliances.

“We have given support to the North when it mattered most. The current situation, therefore, calls for reciprocity and co-operation. Nonetheless, in appealing to the conscience of Nigerians in the prevailing uncommon circumstance, we would claim our right, with dignity and determination, in the interest of our dear country.”

Anenih said that the unity of the South-south was important for peace and progress, stressing that “it is the basis on which other regions will take us seriously.”