As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the influential Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has thrown its full support behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, calling for a second term in office to continue the work of national unification and economic revival. This endorsement, announced through a statement from Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the group’s Deputy President-General, emphasizes both political and infrastructural reforms, particularly for the Southeast region, which has faced escalating insecurity and underdevelopment.
In a move that underscores its commitment to peace and political stability, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is urging President Tinubu to use his powers to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by 2025. The group argued that Kanu’s release would not only serve as a symbolic gesture of mercy but also act as a key catalyst for resolving the ongoing insecurity challenges in the Southeast, which have plagued the region for years.
A Call for Peace and Political Stability
In an exclusive statement issued on Sunday, Isiguzoro made a poignant appeal to President Tinubu, emphasizing the deep-rooted need for peace in the region. “Our people have endured years of instability, and the path to peace cannot be achieved amidst violence and division. We believe that the release of Nnamdi Kanu is essential for peace in the Southeast,” he said.
He further added, “The wounds inflicted by years of unrest require a leadership that acknowledges the need for healing and reconciliation. The President’s executive intervention will go a long way in restoring the trust of the people.”
In the same breath, Ohanaeze Ndigbo warned against political fragmentation that could stem from opposition factions. Criticizing the disarray among opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and others, the group asserted that they lacked the coherence necessary to mount a meaningful challenge against Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Isiguzoro’s words were firm: “It would be reckless to support fragmented political leadership that cannot offer substantive solutions for the nation’s progress.”
Ohanaeze’s Warnings Against Political Opportunism
One of the most striking parts of the statement was Ohanaeze’s caution against being used as a pawn in a game of political opportunism. The group expressed its dissatisfaction with previous alliances, particularly the 2019 endorsements of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, both of which led to disunity within the Igbo community. Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized that the lessons of the past must guide future decisions, and that the Ibo people cannot afford to gamble with their unity again.
“Our history has shown us the dangers of misguided political alliances. We cannot afford to endorse candidates whose track records and intentions are unclear,” Isiguzoro stated. “Our people’s interests must always come first, and our support for Tinubu is a strategic move toward unity, stability, and progress.”
Infrastructure Revitalization for Economic Progress
The call for peace is paired with an urgent plea for the acceleration of infrastructure projects in the Southeastern region. Ohanaeze Ndigbo has long advocated for the rehabilitation of dilapidated federal roads and other key infrastructure under the leadership of Senator David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works. According to Isiguzoro, these projects are vital not only for the economic development of the region but also for fostering national cohesion.
The group stressed that these projects must be completed before the end of 2026 to avoid further economic stagnation. “Infrastructure in the Southeast is the backbone of our regional economy and social cohesion. The successful completion of these rehabilitation projects will boost economic activities, create jobs, and improve the living standards of our people,” Isiguzoro added.
A Plea for Fair Representation
As the 2025 Census draws closer, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is calling for fair and accurate representation of the Igbo people across the country. Isiguzoro highlighted that the Igbo demographic must be properly reflected, particularly in regions like the North, where the Ibo population is significant but often overlooked. “Our people must have a voice in national conversations. Ensuring accurate representation will empower us politically,” he said.
Additionally, the group is pushing for the creation of new states within the Igbo-speaking regions, with the proposed Anioma State in the South-South and Aba State in the Southeast. Isiguzoro stated that such states would improve governance, representation, and socio-political relevance for the Igbo community.
Revitalizing the Eastern Economic Corridor
Economic revitalization remains at the heart of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s vision for the Southeast. Isiguzoro outlined several ambitious infrastructure projects, including the dredging and reopening of the Calabar Seaport, the revival of Enugu Coal Mine, and the establishment of the Akwete Blue River Deep Seaport in Abia State. These projects, according to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, are crucial to enhancing the region’s economic connectivity with the rest of Nigeria and the world.
Moreover, Ohanaeze is advocating for the upgrading of the railway system to better link the Southeast with key economic hubs. “The Eastern Economic corridors must be revived to foster trade and stimulate growth,” Isiguzoro emphasized, pointing to the potential of a connected Southeastern region to become an economic powerhouse.
Unity for a Brighter Future
As the countdown to the 2027 elections intensifies, Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s endorsement of President Tinubu signifies more than just political support; it reflects a call for unity, peace, and a renewed commitment to regional development. The group has urged its members and all Igbo people to set aside parochial interests in favor of a collective vision for a better future.
Isiguzoro concluded, “Our allegiance is to the progress of the Southeast and the integrity of our identity. The challenges we face are real, but they can be overcome with unity, infrastructure, and political stability. Now is the time to rally behind a leader who can guide us toward a prosperous future.”
