Nigeria's Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has voiced his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's reelection in 2027. Speaking at an All Progressives Congress (APC) Town Hall meeting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Umahi described himself as the "Lion of South-East" and emphasized Tinubu's contributions to the region. The event was organized by the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President Southeast on Community Engagement, Barr. Chioma Nweze.
The town hall meeting aimed to mobilize support for President Tinubu, Governor Francis Nwifuru, and other APC candidates in the forthcoming elections. Former Senator representing Ebonyi Central, Sen. Julius Ali Ucha, moved a motion adopting APC and President Tinubu for reelection, which was seconded by Senator Anthony Agbo. The motion was subsequently endorsed through a voice vote. Various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community leaders, attended the meeting.
Umahi urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to provide their full support to President Tinubu, emphasizing the importance of not sitting on the fence due to regional sentiments. He encouraged leaders of various clans, villages, communities, and local government areas to persuade their brothers contesting against the zoning arrangement already in place in the state. Umahi also emphasized the need for the reelection of Governor Francis Nwifuru.
Addressing the party faithful, Umahi stressed that Igbo people need wisdom, not sentiments. He highlighted the progress made in the region, citing improved economic activities, revived roads, and increased integration. Umahi noted that the South-East has been fully integrated, with appointments such as the Naval Chief, Chief of Air Staff, Minister of Works, and other key positions.
Umahi expressed his conviction that supporting President Tinubu will strategically position the South-East for future benefits. He emphasized that the region should not rely on hate speeches or sentiments to achieve its goals. Instead, he advocated for a more informed and strategic approach to achieving the region's objectives.
The Minister of Works also criticized those who insist on supporting Peter Obi, questioning his superiority over other leaders. Umahi emphasized that strategic leaders in the South-East are supporting President Tinubu due to his love for the region and infrastructural development initiatives.
In his remarks, Umahi called on traditional fathers and religious leaders not to remain neutral, citing the examples of other regions that do not hesitate to support their leaders. The Minister's comments reflect his commitment to mobilizing support for President Tinubu's reelection bid and promoting the interests of the South-East region.
Key points
- Umahi supports Tinubu's reelection in 2027, citing his achievements in the South-East zone.
- The town hall meeting aimed to mobilize support for President Tinubu, Governor Francis Nwifuru, and other APC candidates.
- Umahi emphasizes the need for the South-East region to adopt a strategic approach to achieving its objectives, rather than relying on sentiments or hate speeches.