Nigerian Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed his opinion that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), cannot win the 2027 presidential election. According to Umahi, increased political awareness in the South-East region will cost Obi votes. He made this statement in Abuja while receiving a report from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on its nationwide tour of federal roads.
Umahi urged South-East leaders to educate the people about the achievements of President Bola Tinubu's administration in the region. He emphasized the importance of leaders being bold and vocal in communicating the benefits of Tinubu's presidency to the Igbo people. Umahi's comments suggest that he is confident that with proper awareness, the South-East region will not support Obi's presidential bid.
The Minister also threw his weight behind Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for openly supporting President Tinubu. Umahi praised Soludo's boldness in making his political choice public and called for an end to vilification of those who choose to support the President. This statement implies that Umahi values open and honest political discourse.
Umahi claimed that the Tinubu administration has done more for the South-East region than any previous government in terms of appointments, inclusion, and projects. He cited infrastructure development, such as roads and bridges, as critical to economic growth. According to Umahi, the current administration's efforts in the region are unparalleled.
On funding for legacy projects, Umahi explained that the Federal Government will provide 30% of the cost, while the remaining balance will be sourced from loans to be repaid through tolling. This financing model aims to ensure that projects are completed without placing undue burden on the government.
The Minister also expressed concern over vandalism and reckless driving on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He reported that some individuals are removing iron used for road demarcation and manhole covers, while motorists overspeed on the corridor. Umahi described these actions as unacceptable and called for greater responsibility from road users.
Earlier, NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, reported on the North-West leg of the students' road tour, which covered Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, and Sokoto States. The team inspected several roads connecting over 10 tertiary institutions and recommended the construction of a pedestrian bridge at the Federal Co-operative College, Kaduna, to improve students' safety.
Key points
- Peter Obi cannot win the 2027 presidential election due to increased political awareness in the South-East region.
- The Tinubu administration has done more for the South-East region than any previous government in terms of appointments, inclusion, and projects.
- The Federal Government will provide 30% of the funds for legacy projects, while the remaining balance will be sourced from loans to be repaid through tolling.
