05/08/2025
Umahi Urges South-East to Back Tinubu’s Re-Election for Future Igbo Presidency
The Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Dave Umahi, has called on the people of the South-East to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration and support his re-election bid in 2027. According to Umahi, this strategic political alignment is crucial if the Igbo are serious about eventually producing a Nigerian president of South-East extraction.
Speaking at a stakeholder event in Abuja, Umahi dismissed the idea of an Igbo presidency in 2027 as unrealistic and politically immature. He said the region must not allow itself to be misled by “darkening counsel without knowledge” — a Biblical reference that suggests being deceived by empty rhetoric and emotional manipulation.
“Those telling our people that Igbo presidency is possible in 2027 are not being honest. It is not realistic, and we should stop deceiving ourselves. Instead, we should support President Tinubu, and build bridges. That’s how politics works,” Umahi stated.
He emphasized that the South-East must learn from other regions that have historically wielded political influence by forming alliances and backing national leadership over time. He pointed to the North and South-West as examples of regions that have used loyalty and strategic patience to secure power at the center.
A Call for Political Realism
Umahi’s comments come amid growing political tension in the South-East, where many young people and political figures continue to support the Labour Party and its leader, Peter Obi. However, Umahi warned that isolating the region politically would only delay the prospect of an Igbo presidency further.
“We must be wise and think long-term. If we back Tinubu in 2027 and show unity and maturity, we will have a stronger case in the future — maybe 2031 or beyond. That’s how the game is played,” he added.
Political Divide in the South-East
The Minister’s comments are likely to stir debate within the South-East, where many citizens feel marginalized and disillusioned with national politics. While some may view Umahi’s advice as pragmatic, others may see it as submission to a system that has historically sidelined the region.
Critics argue that supporting Tinubu, despite growing dissatisfaction with his economic policies and the rising cost of living, would be politically suicidal for the South-East. However, Umahi insists that long-term strategic gain must outweigh short-term frustrations.
Bottom Line
With 2027 fast approaching, the future of the Igbo presidency remains a key talking point in Nigerian politics. Dave Umahi’s call for the South-East to support Tinubu may be unpopular in some quarters, but it reflects a broader conversation about political alignment, negotiation, and the power dynamics shaping Nigeria’s leadership succession.
