Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has firmly dismissed claims that the South-East region has set conditions, including the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, for supporting President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Friday night, Umahi clarified the region's position on the matter. "Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South-East to support the President. We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him there," Umahi stated.
Dialogue Over Pressure
The Works Minister described President Tinubu as a listening leader and expressed confidence that Kanu's release would eventually come through dialogue rather than political pressure. He emphasized that the approach should be through divine grace and constructive engagement.
"President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right. Look at where he picked up the economy from. The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects," Umahi added.
Infrastructure Development in South-East
Umahi highlighted significant infrastructure projects being delivered by the Tinubu administration in the South-East, including the rehabilitation of roads abandoned by previous governments. He challenged critics of the President to showcase their own contributions to national development.
The Minister also countered allegations that the South-East region is being marginalized in federal appointments, asserting that President Tinubu has done more for the geopolitical zone than many of his predecessors.
Call for Political Unity
Umahi called for unity among political leaders regardless of party affiliations, noting that governors across the South-East—including those from opposition parties—are working collaboratively with the President for regional development.
On speculations about his political ambitions, Umahi categorically stated that he has no intention of contesting for Nigeria's presidency in 2027. "I will not run. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu. APC is the path to achieving what we want. The South-East now has a voice at the centre. We will not return to Egypt," he declared.
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