The factional leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has commenced strategic planning to secure the Igbo presidency slot in the 2031 general elections.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday, May 24, by the socio-political organisation led by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, with Chief Thompson Ohia as Deputy President General and National Spokesperson.
The group said a careful deliberation by its leaders affirmed that it is in the best collective interest of the Igbo nation to support the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
According to the statement, the approach is aimed at positioning the Southeast to produce the Vice President on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2031, while ensuring the region fully benefits from federal government initiatives.
The decision, the group added, was jointly reached with the Southeast Governors’ Forum, the Forum of Former Governors, and Southeast Serving Ministers during a meeting in January 2026.
“These decisions emphasised that no Igbo candidate, including Mr. Peter Obi, should challenge President Tinubu in 2027.
“This strategic restraint is intended to allow the federal government to complete ongoing infrastructure projects, create additional states in the Southeast, and implement policies that enhance economic development in the region,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze also congratulated President Tinubu on his victory in the APC presidential primaries held across the country.
“We also congratulate Southeast governors who secured re-election in 2027, with special commendation to Rt. Hon. Kingsley O. Chinda of Rivers State for clinching the APC gubernatorial ticket,” the statement said.
It added: “Strategic negotiations have commenced with key political stakeholders, including the Presidency, to ensure that upon the completion of President Tinubu’s tenure in 2031, a committed Igbo leader emerges as Vice President. Prospective candidates of exceptional calibre include Senator Dave Nweze Umahi and Chimaroke Nnamani.”