President Bola Tinubu has urged the South-East region to emulate the politics of the late Dr. Michael Okpara, the former Premier of the Eastern Region. Tinubu made this call while commissioning the renovated Dr. Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, Abia State. Represented by Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, the President emphasized that Okpara’s style of politics, which focused on integration and development, is worth emulating.
Tinubu encouraged the South-East leaders to adopt Okpara’s approach to politics, which prioritized inclusiveness and nation-building. The President highlighted Okpara’s contributions to the region’s development, noting that his legacy serves as a model for current leaders. Tinubu’s call aligns with his administration’s efforts to promote regional development, including the establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), which aims to drive economic growth and infrastructure development in the region.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-political organization, has praised Tinubu’s leadership style, suggesting that the South-East needs politicians like him who can drive development and work towards regional integration.
The commissioning of the renovated auditorium has been seen as a symbol of the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and regional growth.
Michael Okpara was Nigeria’s youngest Premier at the age of 39 in 1959 when he became the Premier of Eastern Nigeria in the first Republic. He was Premier till the year 1966. He died on December 17, 1984 at the age 63 few days to his 64th birthday.
