APC Diaspora Group Condemns Steve Osuji’s ‘Dabiri-Erewa Must Resign’ Remark

By Ada Nkong

The Coordinators of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Asiwaju Support Organisation (ASO) in Texas, USA, have defended the Chairman Nigerians in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM,Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa following a recent statement by Steve Osuji titled “Abike Must Resign.”

In a statement signed by Engr. Tayo Ogunjimi, the group, rejected claims that  Dabiri-Erewa was tribalistic, noting that she has never displayed bias along ethnic or tribal lines in the discharge of her duties. The group described Osuji’s comments as divisive and capable of fueling unnecessary ethnic tension.

They further praised Dabiri-Erewa, who they referred to as “Mama Diaspora” and “Mother Teresa” for her compassion, consistency, and commitment to the welfare of Nigerians abroad, adding that her pioneering role in promoting diaspora affairs has placed Nigeria on the global stage.

They went on to describe her as a “sterling Nigerian amazon” an accomplished broadcaster turned parliamentarian who continues to distinguish herself as a fair, firm, respected, and courageous leader devoted to national service.

They looked back at her time in the national assembly where Dabiri-Erewa championed and co-sponsored numerous bills, many of which are now law, including the Freedom of Information Bill, Violence Against Persons Bill, Bill for the full integration of Nigerians with physical disabilities, Nigerian Infant Health Welfare Bill (ensuring free medical care for children under 5), Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill (leading to the establishment of NiDCOM), Bill to replace the Nigerian Press Council with the Nigerian Press and Journalism Council, Bill to rename the Women Development Centre to Maryam Babangida Centre for Women Development, a bill to amend the Railway Act to allow private sector and state participation, and a bill to promote the advancement of Nigerian women and girls. 

Appraising her performance at NiDCOM, they said she has “served with diligence, effectiveness, and passion as the Pioneer Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), a Commission responsible for initiating policies that recognise and harness the potentials of Nigerians in Diaspora Networks and Organisations. As a NiDCOM chair, she has put diaspora issues on the front burner with innovative programs and activities under her leadership”.

The group called on the public to disregard Steve Osuji’s mischievous and unfounded claims against Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa

.