Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Not Condition For South-East To Support Tinubu In 2027 – Works Minister Dave Umahi

 

Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, Senator Dave Umahi, has firmly stated that the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), should not be used as a political bargaining chip in the South-East’s support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. Speaking to journalists during a media interaction on Friday night in Lagos, Umahi addressed the growing narrative that the region's political allegiance is tied to Kanu's release.

He made it clear that no such condition has been issued by the South-East, and cautioned against reducing Kanu’s matter to a mere political tool. Umahi acknowledged the emotional and regional weight of Kanu’s incarceration, but emphasized that the judicial process and dialogue should be allowed to take their course without coercion or preconditions.

“Someone raised the issue of Nnamdi Kanu,” he said during the briefing, “and I responded clearly that his situation is not a condition for supporting the President. We are open to peaceful negotiations and discussions on the matter, but no one should impose it as a political demand, especially since President Tinubu is not the one who ordered his detention.”

This position, Umahi noted, does not diminish the ongoing concerns about Kanu’s prolonged detention, but reflects a more strategic and united stance for the South-East in the larger national political equation. He suggested that divine intervention, calm dialogue, and respect for the legal process would eventually lead to a resolution, rather than the application of political pressure.

Praising President Tinubu’s leadership style, Umahi described him as a leader who listens and genuinely seeks to address Nigeria’s challenges despite operating under extremely difficult circumstances. He highlighted the administration’s courage in initiating reforms that are now earning Nigeria increased credibility with the international community.

“President Tinubu is not perfect. No leader is. But it is important to acknowledge that he is trying to put things right, particularly in the economy. He took over at a time when the situation was fragile, and yet, global stakeholders have seen progress in his policies. That is why international support for our projects is growing,” Umahi said.

Turning attention to infrastructure, the minister outlined major road rehabilitation and other federal projects currently ongoing in the South-East. He pointed out that these efforts have started to reverse years of neglect and abandonment by previous governments. According to Umahi, it is only fair to acknowledge that progress is finally reaching the region.

“Those who spend time attacking the President should instead show us their own contributions to nation building. Criticism is easy, but building something meaningful is the real task,” he asserted.

Addressing concerns about federal appointments and representation, Umahi rejected the narrative that the South-East has been marginalized under the current administration. He stated that President Tinubu has already done more for the region in terms of inclusion and recognition than many leaders who came before him.

The former governor also called for greater political cohesion in the South-East, urging leaders from all parties to collaborate in the interest of the region. He highlighted that governors from opposition parties were already working well with the President, demonstrating a collective focus on development over partisanship.

“We should not allow old divisions to define our future,” Umahi urged. “Whether in APC or another party, what matters is our people. South-East governors are showing maturity, and we should build on that spirit of cooperation.”

On the topic of his own political ambitions, Umahi was unequivocal. He ruled out any intention to run for the presidency in 2027, declaring his full loyalty to President Tinubu.

“I will not run. I have made that decision. My role is to work for President Tinubu and support his vision. The All Progressives Congress is our path to achieving national relevance. The South-East finally has a voice at the center, and we must not squander that by returning to the days of isolation and political detachment.”

In conclusion, Umahi called for an end to divisive narratives and urged his fellow South-Easterners to focus on unity, progress, and strategic political engagement. According to him, this is not the time for conditional support or emotional ultimatums but for mature dialogue and constructive collaboration aimed at securing a better future for the region and the country at large.