South-East leaders endorse Tinubu for 2027, pledging votes and resources for APC despite criticism over marginalisation and Nnamdi Kanu’s detention
South-East governors and political stakeholders have officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
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The move was announced during a high-level meeting in the region aimed at consolidating political influence and bloc votes.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma highlighted the region’s growing APC presence, noting that the party now controls three of five South-East states, increased its Senate seats from six to eight, and expanded House of Representatives representation from eight to 23. Uzodinma urged leaders to translate these gains into votes in 2027.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah described the endorsement as a “paradigm shift grounded in pragmatism,” citing federal interventions such as the revival of the Eastern Railway corridor, energy projects, and the concession of Enugu Airport, which he said positions the state as an international gateway for the region.
Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru expressed confidence that all South-East governors would be APC members by 2027, urging party leaders to embrace reconciliation and manage the influx of new members effectively.
The endorsement motion was moved by former Senate President Pius Anyim and seconded by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, who warned that failure to engage strategically could perpetuate complaints of marginalisation in the region.
The communiqué declared Tinubu as the APC’s sole 2027 presidential candidate for the zone and pledged political, material, and human resources to secure bloc votes across South-East states.
Prominent attendees included Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Ikedi Ohakim, senators, lawmakers, and party elders.
However, the endorsement drew sharp criticism. Apostle Eugene Ogu, former chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in Rivers State, condemned South-East leaders for supporting Tinubu while Indigenous People of Biafra leader Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention.
Ogu described the move as a “grand deception” and questioned APC’s popularity in the region, warning of political consequences for sidelining other Igbo leaders, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Meanwhile, the APC Christians’ Wing in Adamawa State defended the party’s inclusiveness, dismissing claims of Muslim domination and asserting that Tinubu’s 2027 bid transcends religion.
Spokesman Joseph Mwadyile said the wing aims to engage Christian youths, enhance grassroots mobilisation, and promote electoral success.
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He acknowledged historical reluctance in predominantly Christian areas but insisted the party is working to change perceptions and expand influence.
