Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has urged the South-East region to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, warning that backing other candidates could amount to “wasting votes.

Soludo made the call during his second-term inauguration ceremony in Awka, where he addressed political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters on the future of the region’s political strategy.

The event was attended by top dignitaries, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima and former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan. In his remarks, the governor emphasized the need for the South-East to take a pragmatic approach in national politics, arguing that aligning with the incumbent government would better position the region for development and influence.

He expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as capable of delivering on key reforms and national priorities. Soludo acknowledged the long-standing aspiration among the Igbo for a president of South-East extraction but suggested that the region should focus on building strategic alliances that could yield greater political dividends in the long term.

His comments come amid early political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections, with debates already emerging over zoning, regional interests, and potential alliances. Political analysts say Soludo’s position could shape discussions within the South-East, while also drawing reactions from groups advocating for an Igbo presidency.

The governor’s stance is expected to generate mixed reactions across the region, reflecting ongoing divisions over the best path to achieving political relevance and representation at the national level.