Works Minister Dave Umahi Declares 2027 Igbo Presidency Unrealistic, Urges Igbos to Back Tinubu for Strategic Political Gains

 

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has issued a strong political message to the South-East, insisting that the notion of producing Nigeria’s next president in 2027 is not only unrealistic but misleading. He urged the people of the region to reject what he described as “darkening counsel” and instead throw their full weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid, if they truly aspire to lead the country one day.

Speaking in a personally signed statement released to journalists on Monday, the former Ebonyi State governor made it clear that aligning with President Tinubu is the South-East’s most viable path toward future national leadership. According to Umahi, it is a political miscalculation for anyone to assume that the region can clinch the presidency in 2027 without a united and strategic front.

He stressed that any movement suggesting an Igbo presidency at the next general elections is ill-conceived and detached from the current political realities in Nigeria. For Umahi, the goal should not be short-term ambition, but long-term positioning based on mutual trust and inter-regional cooperation.

“Let no one deceive our people with empty dreams,” the statement warned. “We need to support President Tinubu fully. That is the way forward if we ever hope to lead this country.”

Highlighting what he described as the President’s inclusive policies and commitment to fairness, Umahi argued that Tinubu has shown genuine affection for the South-East. From infrastructural development to appointments, he said the region has not been left behind. This, he noted, should serve as a foundation upon which political alliances must be built.

Rather than entertaining divisive rhetoric or sowing discord through misinformation, the minister believes the South-East should take a bold political step by giving Tinubu overwhelming electoral support in 2027. He even set an ambitious target for the zone, stating that the region should deliver up to 90 percent of its votes to the President.

“Enough of misleading narratives and blind politics,” Umahi said firmly. “It is time to educate our people on the importance of strategic partnerships. If we want to be in a position of power, we must first show political loyalty and unity.”

His remarks are likely to stir conversations within the region’s political circles, particularly among those who have been pushing for a presidential candidate of South-East origin come 2027. Umahi’s position draws a clear line between sentiment-driven politics and what he sees as practical political calculation.

He extended praise to the current South-East governors for their developmental strides and support of President Tinubu’s administration. Umahi called on citizens of the region to stand by these leaders, supporting them as they pursue second terms in office. According to him, a united front at both state and federal levels is critical if the South-East is to achieve any meaningful political advancement.

“We must commend our governors for what they are doing. The region is moving forward because of their effort and alignment with the center. We need to support them without reservation,” the statement noted.

He also reminded the public that all regions in the country have historically taken turns at the presidency through sustained alliances and compromise. For the South-East to reach that same milestone, Umahi emphasized that they must play the long game.

“Every region that has produced a president did so through calculated partnerships and loyalty. It’s not about shouting the loudest or holding on to bitterness. We too will have our time, but that time is not 2027,” he said.

While his remarks may be seen as controversial by some, they reflect a broader political strategy that hinges on patience, loyalty, and cross-regional collaboration. Umahi’s message is clear: the road to an Igbo presidency is through sustained national engagement and not through divisive tactics.

He concluded by reaffirming his personal commitment to countering what he called mischief and deception in South-East politics. Describing the people of the region as hardworking and peace-loving, Umahi called on them to reject politics rooted in hate and sentiment.

“Our strength has always been our unity and enterprise. Let us not be known for divisive politics. We are builders, not destroyers,” he concluded.