Igbo apex group pledges overwhelming support for incumbent, identifies David Umahi as preferred 2035 candidate
The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has announced that no Igbo candidate will challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. The group stated that the Southeast region’s aspiration to produce a Nigerian president is realistically achievable in 2035, not 2027.
In a statement released over the weekend in Abakaliki and signed by Deputy President General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesman Chief Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze explained that the decision followed consultations with key Southeast political leaders, including Imeobi and Nzukoumunna. The meetings concluded with a consensus to forego a one-term bid for an Igbo presidency in 2027.
Ohanaeze emphasized that the most viable pathway to an Igbo presidency lies within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2035, particularly if the country’s zoning arrangements are adjusted. Among prominent Igbo figures, the group identified Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, as the standout candidate with the strongest prospects for 2035.
The organization recognized other capable Igbo leaders, including Peter Obi, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Pius Anyim, Governors Hope Uzodinma and Chukwuma Soludo, Rochas Okorocha, and others, acknowledging their leadership qualities while stressing that Umahi remains the most suitable candidate.
Ohanaeze affirmed its full support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, projecting that around 95% of Igbo votes will rally behind him. The group described this endorsement as a strategic decision aimed at fostering national stability and promoting cooperative political engagement across Nigeria.
In their statement, Ohanaeze said: “The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, finds it paramount to convey a clear and compelling message to both the Ndigbo and the wider Nigerian populace. While the Igbo presidency is an achievable goal, it is set realistically for 2035. Senator David Umahi emerges as the most qualified candidate among a distinguished group of leaders, including Peter Obi, Ifeanyi Okowa, Pius Anyim, Hope Uzodinma, Chukwuma Soludo, and Rochas Okorocha.
The most practicable political vehicle for this pursuit lies within the APC. Our collective aspiration depends on forging strategic alliances and trust across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. Following extensive consultations, we have resolved that no Igbo candidate will contest against President Tinubu in 2027.
We hereby affirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu’s re-election, with approximately 95% of Igbo votes projected in his favor. Looking ahead, the year 2035 represents a historic opportunity for the Southeast to produce Nigeria’s first Igbo president.”
Ohanaeze’s announcement underscores a strategic approach to political alignment and sets the stage for the Southeast to pursue its presidential ambition in the next viable electoral cycle.
