The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 elections. In a statement issued by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, on Sunday, the group urged the President to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a step toward restoring peace and resolving insecurity in the Southeast.
Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release and Regional Stability
Ohanaeze emphasized that Kanu’s release would serve as both an act of mercy and a critical measure for achieving peace in the Southeast. “Our region deserves a path toward stability, and this cannot happen in the shadow of violence and discord,” Isiguzoro stated.
Appeal for Infrastructure Development
The group also highlighted the urgent need to accelerate ongoing federal infrastructure projects in the Southeast, particularly the rehabilitation of dilapidated roads. Ohanaeze urged Senator David Umahi, Minister of Works, to ensure these projects are completed before the end of 2026, describing Southeastern infrastructure as the backbone of economic progress and social cohesion.
Support for Rotational Presidency and Tinubu’s Continuity
Ohanaeze reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s rotational presidency, insisting that the South should retain leadership from 2023 to 2031. “This principle of fairness compels us to support President Tinubu’s bid for a second term in 2027,” the statement read.
The group criticized the opposition’s lack of cohesion and capacity to mount a credible challenge, warning against alliances that could undermine Igbo unity. It referenced past endorsements of opposition candidates, which it claimed had negatively impacted the Southeast’s political interests.
Additional Regional Demands
Ohanaeze outlined several other demands, including:
- Accurate Representation in the 2025 Census: The group called for the inclusion of ethnic and religious demographics to reflect the true population of the Igbo people across Nigeria.
- Creation of New States: Proposals for Anioma State in the South-South and Aba State in the Southeast were presented as necessary for enhanced governance and representation.
- Eastern Economic Revitalization: Key projects include the reopening of Calabar Seaport, revival of Enugu Coal Mine, establishment of the Akwete Blue River Deep Seaport, and modernization of railways connecting Southeastern towns.
A Call for Unity and Progress
Ohanaeze’s endorsement of Tinubu is presented as a decisive step toward ensuring peace, stability, and development in the Southeast. The organization urged Igbos to align with this vision and prioritize collective progress over individual interests.
“Our focus is clear: we seek harmony, resilience, and a brighter future for the Igbo people, driven by infrastructural advancement and an unwavering commitment to security and wellbeing,” the statement concluded.