Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has declared that the South-East geopolitical zone is firmly behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and will actively support his re-election bid in 2027.
Speaking to journalists on Friday night in Lagos, Umahi commended President Tinubu’s performance so far, particularly in infrastructure and economic reforms, stating that the President has proven himself to be a “listening and responsive leader.”
The minister dismissed claims that the South-East is attaching conditions — such as the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu — to its political support for the President.
“Someone asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I made it clear: his case is not a condition for the South-East to support President Tinubu,” Umahi said.
“We are open to negotiating his release, but it must not be politicized. The President didn’t put him there.”
Umahi expressed optimism that Kanu’s release would come through dialogue and divine intervention, not political coercion.
“President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right,” he added.
“Look at the state of the economy when he took office. Today, there is renewed international confidence in Nigeria, and that’s reflected in the support we are receiving for our projects.”
He went on to highlight several ongoing infrastructure initiatives in the South-East, including the rehabilitation of long-neglected federal roads, as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive development.
Addressing allegations that the South-East is being marginalized in federal appointments, Umahi countered that no previous administration had done as much for the region in such a short time.
“Critics should point to what they’ve done for the country,” he challenged.
“President Tinubu has empowered the South-East in ways that are tangible and measurable.”
Umahi also called for unity among political leaders across party lines, noting that South-East governors — including those from opposition parties — are working collaboratively with the Tinubu administration to deliver development to the region.
He further clarified that he has no presidential ambitions for 2027 and remains committed to supporting President Tinubu.
“I will not run for president. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu,” he affirmed.
“The APC is the platform through which we can achieve our goals. The South-East now has a voice at the centre, and we will not go back to where we were.”
