Anenih quits politics, rallies support for Buhari

Former chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Tony Anenih, on Saturday, said that he has withdrawn from active partisan politics.

He, however, said that he would continue to avail the country of his experience, suggestions and advice as a statesman.

This came as he acknowledged that the country was going through difficult times and called for support and  prayer for President Muhammadu Buhari on the wisdom and vision to steer the country from recession to prosperity.

Anenih spoke in Abuja at the presentation of his 257-page book entitled: “My Life and Nigerian Politics,” where he noted that the recession was a national predicament which must be confronted in unity, irrespective of partisan commitments.

He urged Nigerians to persevere and hope for a better tomorrow.

Anenih said that he wrote the book to provide lessons and encouragement for present and future generations.

“I am hopeful that the lessons of fortitude, hard work, diligence, loyalty and service, manifesting in my life, will give encouragement to those who are serving, as well as those who aspire to serve our fatherland,” he said.

He declared that proceeds from the book presentation would be used to support the good causes that he had initiated and promoted over the years.

However, former President Goodluck Jonathan  at the event said although the former BoT chairman would no longer attend political meetings, he remained a political leader and should continue till death.

He said that he remains a member of the PDP despite the fact that he has not been able to attend any formal meeting of the party since he left office.

“We will continue to consult you in the areas of security and politics. You will continue to mentor us,” he said.

Earlier, chairman on the occasion and former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, described Anenih as a political heavyweight, mentor to many and man of unalloyed loyalty.

Reviewing the book, Professor Epiphany Azinge stated that Anenih was a recurring decimal in the country’s politics.

“The country has never seen and may never again see any politician of such sagacity as Anenih,” he said.