PRESS RELEASE: Date: 11/12/2024 – Resolute Stand Against Northern Hegemony: Ohanaeze Ndigbo Responds to Atiku Abubakar’s Endorsement of a Northern Presidency—Umahi’s Development Projects to Guarantee Igbo Votes for Tinubu in 2027.

The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, vehemently issues this formal response to the recent declarations made by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President and 2023 PDP Presidential Candidate. His overt endorsement of a Northern Presidency for the upcoming 2027 elections exacerbates longstanding concerns within the Nigerian polity, particularly among the Igbo people, regarding the potential subversion of the critically important principle of rotational presidency—an essential pillar of our democratic governance model since the Fourth Republic commenced in 1999.

By boldly championing a Northern candidate, Atiku Abubakar has unequivocally signaled his unwillingness to support any Southern contenders, prominently including his former ally, Mr. Peter Obi. This alarming revelation raises significant concerns over efforts to diminish Mr. Obi’s stature within the fabric of opposition politics, potentially relegating him to a mere vice-presidential role. Such a notion is both untenable and emblematic of a larger political malaise that jeopardizes the core principles of our democratic aspirations.

In light of this perplexing trajectory, Ohanaeze Ndigbo categorically dismisses, renounces, and rejects any insinuation of an Igbo alliance with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a partnership predicated on his apparent disregard for the Gentleman’s Agreement governing the rotational presidency. We assert with unwavering conviction that the conclusion of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Northern tenure, which spanned eight years from 2015 to 2023, marks a necessary transition of political power and leadership to Southern Nigeria from 2023 to 2031.

This transition is imperative to ensure our collective pursuit of equitable representation and governance amidst our richly diverse national tapestry. Atiku Abubakar’s reckless pursuit of a Northern political hegemony has irreparably tarnished his standing among the Igbo populace, signaling an affront to our aspirations for inclusion and representation in governance. His public statements reveal an exclusionary agenda that dismisses any Southern candidates, notably Mr. Obi, as potential leaders in the upcoming elections.

The implications of his rhetorical choices suggest a desire to construe Mr. Obi merely as a running mate, rather than acknowledging him as a capable Opposition leader with valid political weight. Ohanaeze Ndigbo resolutely rebuffs any political stratagem that seeks to subordinate the Igbo people or undermine our rightful place in the national discourse.

Moreover, it is essential to clarify that Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s focus extends beyond Atiku’s increasingly untenable advocacy for a Northern presidency. Rather, our critical emphasis lies on the ongoing infrastructural renaissance occurring throughout Southeastern Nigeria. Thus, we extend our commendations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s dedicated focus on significant infrastructural developments currently underway in the Southeast.

Under the astute leadership of Senator Dave Umahi, a member of our community, we have witnessed the rehabilitation and construction of vital federal roadways—specifically the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, the Calabar-Abakaliki-Benue-Abuja Road, and the Sokoto-Lagos Superhighways. These monumental projects not only enhance regional connectivity but also foster economic growth and integration.

These essential developments starkly contrast with the systemic neglect endured by the Southeast during the Obasanjo/Atiku administration, which routinely disregarded the importance of federal highways integral to our development from 1999 to 2007. President Tinubu’s steadfast commitment to remedying these infrastructural inadequacies has garnered substantial appreciation from the Igbo community and is poised to translate into a formidable electoral endorsement for his leadership come 2027.

Expressing the sentiments of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, our Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, articulates the gravity of our position: “Atiku Abubakar has irreparably alienated himself from the Igbo people due to his unreserved endorsement of a Northern presidency—an endorsement which directly contravenes our established norms of power rotation. His actions underscore a profound disconnection from the aspirations of patriotic Nigerians, revealing an obstinate reluctance to embrace the evolving dynamics of democratic governance.”

As we cast our eyes toward the future, let it be unequivocally articulated: No Igbo individual shall align themselves with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar or engage in any manner of allegiance with Northern political ambitions in the upcoming 2027 elections. Instead, driven by the remarkable infrastructural advancements spearheaded by Senator Dave Umahi, the Igbo people pledge their unwavering support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His resolute actions resonate harmoniously with our collective vision for progress, equity, and unity within our national framework.

In conclusion, we—the Igbo people—stand unyielding in our declaration: We shall not entertain any political agenda that undermines our dignity and aspirations. Rather, we will mobilize collectively to ensure the benefits of development and recognition are allocated to those who sincerely advocate for our cause.

E-Signed,
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Secretary General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo