The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called for a fresh political dialogue with the federal government ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a statement, the organisation demanded clear commitments on its proposed engagement, which should address infrastructure, political inclusion, constitutional restructuring, economic development, transportation, maritime infrastructure, and national reconciliation. This move is aimed at ensuring the South-east region is adequately represented and its concerns addressed.
Ohanaeze's first major question is whether the federal government supports the creation of an additional state in the South-east. The group is seeking an open constitutional and national conversation involving the National Assembly, the federal government, and relevant stakeholders. This proposed dialogue is crucial in determining the region's future and ensuring its concerns are heard.
The organisation also demanded a clear timetable for the proposed Aba-Maiduguri standard-gauge railway. Ohanaeze insisted that the project should move beyond announcements to defined funding, commencement, and completion targets. Furthermore, the group urged the federal government to clarify plans for a deep-sea port in the South-east, particularly at Azumini Blue River in Abia state.
Ohanaeze further asked the federal government to state whether President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is considering a presidential pardon or other exercise of the prerogative of mercy for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The issue should be addressed within the constitutional and legal framework and with consideration for peace and national reconciliation. This move is seen as a crucial step towards resolving the Kanu issue.
On political representation, the organisation demanded clarity on the offices, responsibilities, and level of inclusion envisaged for Ndigbo under the APC-led federal government. Ohanaeze added that political participation should go beyond appointments to meaningful involvement in national decision-making. The group believes that Ndigbo cannot make informed political choices in an atmosphere of uncertainty.
The group said that political engagement ahead of 2027 should be based on reciprocal commitments, measurable deliverables, and clearly defined expectations rather than assumptions. While acknowledging infrastructure initiatives by the Tinubu administration, Ohanaeze urged the federal government to commence a structured Federal Government-South-East dialogue covering various issues, including state creation and economic development.
Ohanaeze emphasised that Ndigbo wants to know what is on the table before the 2027 elections. The organisation's demands are aimed at ensuring that the South-east region is adequately represented and its concerns addressed. The group's statement was jointly signed by its deputy president general, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and acting secretary-general, Prof. Chibuikeya Achoakawa.
Key points
- Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide seeks a fresh dialogue with the federal government to address the region's concerns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
