Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has said the South-East region should not expect to produce Nigeria’s president in the upcoming 2027 general elections, urging instead for strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

In a statement released on Monday, Umahi dismissed claims of marginalisation and pointed to President Tinubu’s ongoing infrastructure projects in the region as evidence of commitment to national equity.

“Politics is in the air, and some people are choosing to deceive the public. They want to appear as heroes while ignoring the massive and selfless infrastructure projects Mr. President is undertaking across Nigeria,” Umahi stated.

He revealed that all regional directors in the Ministry of Works have been instructed to return to project sites and submit detailed reports on both inherited and new projects, further underlining the administration’s focus on nationwide development, regardless of voting history or party loyalty.

Umahi called on the Igbo people to build strategic political alliances and avoid divisive rhetoric, noting that power in Nigeria rotates through collaboration and trust.

“If we want to be president, we must avoid the politics of hate and sentiments. We must support other regions, and with God, one day, other regions will support us,” he said.

He warned that agitations for a South-East presidency in 2027 are unrealistic and premature, insisting that Tinubu deserves a full eight-year tenure.

“Mr. President must have the votes of the South-East up to 90% to cement this relationship… One day, we will be number one but not in 2027,” Umahi added.

The minister commended South-East governors for their development initiatives and encouraged them to continue partnering with the federal government.

His comments come in response to growing support for Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, who recently confirmed plans to contest again in 2027.