Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, has unequivocally stated that an Igbo presidency in 2027 is an unattainable goal. He cautioned against misleading counsel that promotes this unrealistic expectation within the South-East region and advocated for unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. Umahi believes that this support is the most strategic path towards solidifying the South-East’s prospects of producing a future president of Nigeria. He emphasized the need for the region to consolidate its political influence and demonstrate its commitment to national unity by rallying behind the incumbent president.
Umahi’s statement, released to the media, underscores his conviction that the pursuit of an Igbo presidency in 2027 is not only impractical but also potentially detrimental to the long-term political aspirations of the South-East. He argued that engaging in divisive politics and harboring unrealistic expectations would only isolate the region and undermine its chances of gaining national support for its presidential ambitions in the future. He called for a pragmatic approach, emphasizing the importance of building bridges and fostering collaborative relationships with other regions.
The Minister highlighted President Tinubu’s demonstrable “love and fairness” towards the South-East as a compelling reason for the region to reciprocate with overwhelming support. He posited that strengthening the relationship between the South-East and the current administration is crucial for building trust and paving the way for future collaboration. He urged the people of the South-East to recognize the benefits of aligning with the incumbent president and to avoid falling prey to divisive narratives that could hinder the region’s progress.
Umahi’s call for unity extends beyond the presidency. He commended the South-East governors for their leadership and encouraged the people to support their re-election bids as well. He emphasized the importance of cohesive leadership within the region and stressed that working in concert with both the governors and the president is essential for achieving the South-East’s developmental goals. He portrayed a united front as a powerful tool for attracting investment, promoting economic growth, and enhancing the region’s political influence.
The Minister’s statement serves as a direct rebuttal to those promoting the idea of an Igbo presidency in 2027. He characterized such advocacy as “darkening counsel without knowledge,” suggesting that it is based on misinformation and a lack of understanding of the current political landscape. He urged the people of the South-East to reject divisive rhetoric and to focus on building a stronger, more unified region capable of achieving its long-term political objectives. He emphasized that the path to the presidency requires strategic alliances, national support, and a demonstrated commitment to national unity.
Umahi’s message is a call for political realism and strategic maneuvering. He argues that the pursuit of an Igbo presidency in 2027 is a distraction from the more important goal of building a strong foundation for future success. He emphasizes the need for the South-East to engage in constructive dialogue, build bridges with other regions, and consolidate its political influence through strategic alliances. He believes that by supporting President Tinubu’s re-election, the South-East can demonstrate its commitment to national unity and position itself as a key player in the nation’s political future, ultimately paving the way for an Igbo presidency in the years to come. He advocates for a long-term strategy based on collaboration, unity, and a realistic assessment of the current political dynamics.
