Factional Ohanaeze urges Peter Obi to drop 2027 presidency ambition, citing South-East interest, Tinubu’s strides, and risks of opposition vote-splitting

A faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has urged former Anambra State governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to abandon his 2027 presidency ambition and instead support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

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The call was made in a statement on Wednesday by factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who argued that Obi’s continued pursuit of the presidency could harm the South-East politically.

Isiguzoro claimed that Obi’s presidential ambitions have already cost the region dearly, referencing the 2019 Atiku–Obi ticket that allegedly led to the loss of a proposed sixth state for the South-East, promised by then-President Muhammadu Buhari in exchange for political support.

He added that despite the South-East backing Labour Party massively in 2023, Tinubu’s administration has delivered key infrastructural gains for the region.

Notably, the appointment of Engr. David Umahi as Minister of Works has led to ongoing rehabilitation of dilapidated federal roads in the region.

“In addition, federal allocations to the South-East have tripled, benefiting all five governors regardless of party affiliation,” the statement noted.

The Ohanaeze faction warned that a continued opposition front led by both Obi and Atiku Abubakar would split votes in 2027, making it easier for Tinubu to secure a second term. It urged Obi to shelve personal ambition for regional strategic gains.

“This bitter pill must be swallowed,” Isiguzoro said. “Obi should instead negotiate for the urgent needs of the South-East and support Tinubu’s bid, as further political isolation may result in serious consequences for the Igbo people.”

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While recognising Obi’s constitutional right to run, the group emphasised that “unity and negotiation” were more valuable for the South-East than another failed presidential bid.