Leaders from Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states are encouraging the South-East to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, warning that political distractions could derail progress.
This call came at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Women Mega Rally and Empowerment Programme for the South-East, held at Okpara Square, Enugu, over the weekend.
Governors Highlight Economic Reforms and Development
The governors of Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, namely Charles Soludo, Francis Nwifuru, Peter Mbah, and Senator Hope Uzodimma, emphasized that backing Tinubu would enable his administration to build upon its economic reforms and development initiatives.
Peter Mbah spoke at the event, highlighting the benefits of the Federal Government’s economic reforms, which include the creation of development opportunities and the implementation of infrastructure projects such as primary healthcare centres.
Empowering Women for Stronger Communities
Mbah also called on women to mobilize support for Tinubu and other APC candidates in the January 16, 2027 elections and beyond. He used a sailing metaphor, saying, “A good sailor does not abandon his ship mid-sea because of challenges. We must finish the journey we all started together.”
The governor highlighted the South-East’s enterprising spirit and extensive business and social connections, urging residents to translate their economic influence into active political participation.
Mbah discussed an empowerment programme aimed at 5,000 women in the South-East, noting that his administration had already empowered over 2,000 women in Enugu within 48 hours, providing them with financial assistance and support.
According to Mbah, the initiative aims to transform women into wealth creators rather than making them dependent on financial assistance. He stated, “When you empower a woman, you strengthen the family. When you empower a woman, you build a strong community.”
Political Inclusion and Infrastructure Development
Hope Uzodimma described the rally as historic and praised First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for the empowerment initiative. He reaffirmed the region’s commitment to Tinubu’s re-election, arguing that the South-East is experiencing greater political inclusion and development under the current administration after decades of perceived marginalization.
Uzodimma highlighted infrastructure improvements, including better roads, electricity, health reforms, and educational reforms. He stated, “We are now seeing good roads, electricity, health reforms as well as educational reforms in the country. A winning team must not be changed.”
The Imo governor cited increased financial resources for state governments due to economic reforms. He mentioned road projects linking Okigwe to Owerri, Umuahia to Owerri, Orlu to Owerri, and Owerri to Port Harcourt as examples of ongoing infrastructure investments.
Uzodimma also noted that improved state revenues have enabled his administration to consistently meet salary and pension obligations, including the payment of 13th-month salaries to workers.
Skills Acquisition and Political Loyalty
Francis Nwifuru commended the APC-led administration for its skills acquisition and empowerment programmes, urging South-East women to support the party at the polls. He described the APC as the only political party with a clear and identifiable manifesto capable of sustaining Nigeria’s development.
Nwifuru dismissed suggestions of his involvement in any political coalition, declaring his loyalty to the APC. He urged supporters to vote for APC candidates in the January 2027 elections and subsequent contests.
Charles Soludo, represented by his deputy Gilbert Ibezim, called on the people of the South-East to support Tinubu’s re-election. He emphasized that the region would benefit from sustained cooperation with the Federal Government.
Benjamin Kalu, deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, encouraged the Igbo to actively engage in political participation and inclusion by supporting Tinubu’s second-term ambition. He noted that the South-East has not produced a Nigerian president in 60 years and stressed the need for stronger political alliances to advance the region’s interests.
Kalu praised the President for establishing the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), calling it a significant step toward addressing the region’s developmental challenges.
Leave a Reply