Umahi Faces Backlash Over Claim That 2027 Is Not Yet Igbo’s Turn

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has come under criticism following his remarks that the 2027 presidency is not yet the turn of the Igbo people.

Umahi made the comment on Thursday in Benin City, Edo State, while speaking at an event on the Federal Government’s intervention in the Benin-Asaba Road project.

The former Ebonyi State governor said he believed the South-East would eventually produce a President of Nigeria but argued that the region should wait for another opportunity.

He maintained that, in his view, President Bola Tinubu should continue in office before the presidency moves to the South-East.

Umahi also rejected comparisons between himself and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, saying their backgrounds, intellectual capacity, records in public service and contributions to the South-East could be assessed side by side.

The minister further defended his support for Tinubu, saying he and other members of the administration would respond to criticism of the President because they were working with him.

His comments have generated reactions from groups and individuals who disagreed with his position on the timing of an Igbo presidency. One such group, the Igbo Heroes and Icons Foundation, called for political discussions ahead of 2027 to focus on records, policies and measurable performance rather than personal exchanges.

The controversy comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with different political actors advancing competing positions on power rotation and the presidential contest.

Meanwhile, Umahi announced that the Federal Government had ordered the redesign of the 136-kilometre Benin-Asaba dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement following the failure of efforts to continue the existing concession arrangement.

He said temporary intervention had commenced on sections of the highway while plans were being developed for the long-term reconstruction of the road.