The apex socio-cultural organization of the Igbo people, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has issued a compelling call to action directed at President Bola Tinubu, urging him to acknowledge the evolving political landscape as we approach the pivotal 2027 elections. In a time of shifting political dynamics, the organization is emphasizing the urgent need to restore and rebuild the trust that once existed between his administration and the Igbo community.
In a thoughtful joint press release made public on a recent Sunday, Ohanaeze’s factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, alongside Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa, laid out several critical points. They highlighted that while President Tinubu may have enjoyed significant electoral backing from the Northern region in the 2023 elections, it would be a grave miscalculation to presuppose that such overwhelming support will be easily replicated in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The organization warned that, given the fluctuating political calculations observed throughout Northern Nigeria, the fortunes of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could experience unforeseen challenges and complications.Ohanaeze Ndigbo did not shy away from recognizing the government’s efforts in developing infrastructure across the Southeast, pointing out that although these projects are indeed commendable, they fall short of fully addressing the multitude of political and economic grievances faced by the Igbo people. The organization emphasized that mere infrastructure development cannot substitute for the rightful aspirations and expectations of the Ndigbo community.
The statement reinforced a vital message: the Igbo people possess an undeniable constitutional right to vie for the presidency of Nigeria. Ohanaeze explicitly declared, “Our presidential aspiration is legitimate and must be respected,” underscoring that any political engagement with the current administration should be anchored in mutual respect, tangible commitments, and genuine inclusion of all voices within the Igbo community. Furthermore, the organization called for a shift in the president’s approach. It urged him to abandon the assumption that the backing of a few Igbo political intermediaries equates to the endorsement and trust of the broader Igbo population.
True engagement, they argued, necessitates direct dialogue with credible stakeholders and decisive action to address long-standing issues and grievances that have persisted over the years.”Our stance is unequivocal,” Ohanaeze Ndigbo stated, stressing the belief that President Tinubu still has a crucial opportunity to mend relations and foster trust between his administration and the Igbo people, as well as strengthen ties with all of Southern Nigeria. However, they warned that this opportunity must be supported by meaningful actions rather than mere political rhetoric.
As Nigeria gears up for the next electoral cycle, threading a path towards true inclusivity and respect for all regions will be vital, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s call to President Tinubu serves as a reminder of the imperative need for genuine dialogue and commitment to addressing the complexities of Nigeria’s diverse political landscape.