2027: Umahi Says South-East Has Better Presidential Candidates Than Peter Obi

Minister of Works David Umahi has argued that the South-East has more suitable presidential options than Peter Obi, accusing the former Anambra State governor of failing to consult influential regional leaders before launching his 2023 presidential bid.

Speaking in an interview with Arise News, Umahi said his criticism was not rooted in a personal disagreement with Obi but reflected his belief that the region has several other capable politicians who could seek Nigeria’s highest political office.

“Peter Obi is not the best of our finest in South-East,” Umahi said. “He’s not the best; he can never be the best.”

The former Ebonyi State governor said presidential aspirants seeking to advance the interests of the South-East must first consult governors and other prominent political stakeholders in the region to establish a common position.

“You cannot play politics in South-East without consulting people like us,” he said.

According to Umahi, he would consult widely with regional political leaders before announcing a presidential ambition if he were in Obi’s position. He maintained that candidates who claim to represent the interests of a region should engage its influential figures before making major political decisions.

Umahi also questioned the assumption that Obi should be regarded as the South-East’s leading presidential candidate because of his showing in the 2023 election. He insisted that other qualified politicians from the region should be considered when discussions about Nigeria’s next president arise.

On the question of which state should produce a presidential candidate, Umahi argued that the opportunity should not automatically be reserved for Anambra whenever the South-East is considered for the presidency. He pointed out that Nigeria’s first president, Nnamdi Azikiwe, hailed from the area now known as Anambra State, while calling for Ebonyi, Enugu, Abia and Imo to receive consideration as well.

The minister’s comments come as political activities and discussions intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election, including debates over support for President Bola Tinubu among South-East political leaders.

Umahi defended those backing Tinubu, rejecting claims that supporting the president constituted a betrayal of the region.

He argued that the South-East’s path to the presidency would be strengthened by strategic negotiations and alliances with other regions, rather than by judging political loyalty according to whether individuals support a particular candidate.

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