The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stands resolutely in condemnation of the persistent and blatant repetition of historical deceits and manipulative political tactics employed by Atiku Abubakar against the Southeast. In the strongest possible terms, we denounce Atiku’s attempts to once again cajole the Southeast with whitewashed lies and the worn-out propaganda of a single presidency—an overture now made for the third consecutive time.

In 2019, Atiku Abubakar’s ambiguous promises regarding a single presidency were presented to Ohanaeze and a gathering of esteemed Igbo leaders, led by the late Professor Ben Nwabueze. These proposals, however, were met with skepticism, as they failed to resonate meaningfully with the Igbo people. During the presidential consultative meeting at Nike Lake Hotel in Enugu, Igbo leaders sought a clearer understanding and a more substantive engagement, one that would be tied to a well-documented written agreement. Yet, Atiku Abubakar, in an unmistakable display of insincerity, rebuffed this request, dismissing the very foundation upon which meaningful political alliances should be built. Mere days later, he unveiled his political manifesto titled the “2019 Economic 6-Year Plan of Atiku,” which clearly indicated that his intentions did not align with the commitments he sought to extract from the Southeast. This was not a proposal for a single term in office—it was, rather, a calculated ruse designed to mislead the Igbo populace.

As we look forward to the impending political season, Ohanaeze Ndigbo wishes to refrain from prescribing actions to Mr. Peter Obi regarding Atiku’s proposal for him to serve as a vice-presidential nominee in the 2027 elections. However, it is imperative that Mr. Obi acknowledges an undeniable truth: the 2027 presidency remains fundamentally a Southern project. Any coalition that endorses a Northern candidate would not only undermine this objective but also provide an unimpeded route to victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next election.

Furthermore, we feel compelled to urge Mr. Obi to heed the sentiments of the Nigerian youth, predominantly his supporters who proudly identify as the “Obidients.” Should he choose to accept a deputy position under Atiku’s banner, he risks inciting considerable backlash from these young voters who may perceive such a move as a betrayal of their aspirations and hopes for a unified Southern front.

In urging Atiku Abubakar to withdraw from the political arena, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for his voluntary retirement from the electoral race. Instead, we implore him to lend his support toward a Southern candidate for the 2027 elections. The relentless pursuit of the presidency while clinging to outdated and deceitful tactics must come to an end. This ongoing charade serves only to fracture the unity necessary for the true advancement of the Southeast’s political agenda.

It is time for a genuine political renaissance, one rooted in sincerity, authenticity, and a steadfast commitment to the visions and aspirations of the Igbo people. We demand nothing less than transparency and integrity from those who seek to lead, and we categorically refuse to be the unwitting subjects of political chicanery any longer.

MAZI Okechukwu Isiguzoro

Deputy President General 

Ohanaeze Ndigbo

20th May 2025