INEC can learn from Igbo traders union election – Obiora Okonkwo

Professor Obiora Okonkwo, chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to learn from the recent smooth election run by the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association.

He said this as he described how Igbo traders, particularly those who live in Lagos State, give Nigeria’s economy trillions of naira every year.

Speaking when Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association members visited him in Abuja to inform him of recent developments in the association, Okonkwo, the association’s grand patron, urged the members to increase their visibility and highlight their economic contributions in order to gain the respect they needed.

It was learned that the association predominately operates in more than 58 markets throughout Lagos State.

“You have done something commendable by electing your new executive members, and INEC needs to follow your lead,” he said. I didn’t meddle in your election as your grand patron at the federal level. People in positions of leadership ought to let the people choose their own leaders.

This Association is made up of about 58 markets. Additionally, a greater proportion of your members hail from the South East. You produce trillions annually. The government must acknowledge this group.

“In order for you to be respected, you must show off the wealth and resources you bring to Lagos State. You must accord this Association the nationwide respect it deserves in Nigeria. Being a trader is not wrong in any way. I teach trading because I am a professor and a trader.

“Traders ought to be pleased with themselves. Many billionaires received their training in Onitsha market. I am an Onitsha market product, and we are Nigeria’s global ambassadors.