Ohanaeze Declares No Igbo Presidential Bid in 2027, Targets 2035 for Igbo Presidency
The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has announced that no Igbo politician will contest the presidency in 2027 against incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Instead, the group has projected 2035 as the realistic target year for the Southeast to produce Nigeria’s president.
In a statement issued in Abakaliki at the weekend, and jointly signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of the Ohanaeze faction, and Chief Thompson Ohia, its National Spokesman, the group said the decision followed a crucial meeting with Southeast political leaders under the platforms of Imeobi and Nzukoumunna.
According to the statement, the decision represents a rejection of a one-term presidency for Tinubu, as Igbo leaders agreed to align with the incumbent’s re-election bid in 2027.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in collaboration with Southeast political leaders, has reached a unanimous and resolute conclusion that Igbo people will not field presidential candidates in the 2027 elections against the incumbent President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the group stated.
The body further emphasized that the “most practicable political vehicle” for the realization of the Igbo presidency lies within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that zoning arrangements and political alliances would play a decisive role in 2035.
The statement also projected overwhelming Igbo support for Tinubu’s second term bid, saying:
“We hereby affirm our unwavering support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, projecting that approximately 95% of Igbo votes will rally behind this cause.”
Highlighting potential Southeast candidates for future leadership, Ohanaeze listed prominent figures including Peter Obi, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Pius Anyim, Governor Hope Uzodinma, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Senator Rochas Okorocha, and Senator David Umahi.
Among these, the group singled out Umahi—Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor—as the most qualified candidate to lead Nigeria in 2035, citing his track record as governor, chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, senator, and current minister.
“Ohanaeze highlights Senator David Umahi as the eminent candidate in a distinguished ensemble of Igbo leaders,” the statement read. “His extensive record of achievements uniquely positions him to spearhead this essential endeavor.”
The group added that after Tinubu’s tenure, which is expected to end in 2031, political power would likely rotate to the North, making 2035 a “historic opportunity” for the Southeast to finally produce a president of Igbo descent.
