Abakaliki, June 26, 2025 The Igbo socio-cultural body Ohanaeze Ndigbo has issued a stark warning to President Bola Tinubu, stating that sustained hunger, poor governance, and ethnic favoritism could threaten his political standing ahead of the 2027 elections.
Main Concerns Raised by Ohanaeze
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Rising Hunger & Economic Hardship
Ohanaeze slammed the administration’s failure to address soaring food prices and inflation. In a statement by Deputy President-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesman Thompson Ohia, the group described the economic crisis as a sign of “experimental leadership.” According to PANAfrica. -
Incompetent Ministers & Cabinet Shuffle
The organization criticized underperforming ministers, calling for their removal. While commending some, like David Umahi and Nyesom Wike, for infrastructure success, they urged Tinubu to fill his cabinet with merit-based leaders. -
“Yorubanization” & National Unity
Ohanaeze accused the presidency of prioritizing Yoruba appointments, warning that such ethnic bias could undermine national cohesion and trigger political backlash. According to Herald.
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Warning: 2027 Election at Stake
The group cautioned that if current conditions persist, President Tinubu risks being abandoned by both Northern and Igbo voting blocs in 2027. They emphasized the political weight of the Igbo across Nigeria’s 774 LGAs should be earnestly acknowledged.
📌 Ohanaeze’s Key Demands
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Immediate dialogue with Igbo stakeholders, including peaceful pro-Biafra leaders
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A census reflecting ethnic and religious balance
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Creation of two new states in the Southeast for better representation
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Merit-based governance and a reshuffled, competent cabinet.
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What This Means
| Issue | Implication |
|---|---|
| Economic distress | Pressure is mounting on Tinubu to deliver relief or face political consequences |
| Ethnic favoritism | Risk to national unity and electoral support from non-Yoruba regions |
| Igbo political leverage | With over 20% of the electorate, Igbo votes could be pivotal in 2027 |
Final Thoughts
Ohanaeze’s message is a wake-up call: Nigeria’s unrelenting hunger, ethnic imbalance, and ministerial ineffectiveness are not just social issues; they’re political landmines. With the 2027 elections looming, the president faces a crucial test: act decisively or risk losing the trust and votes of key regions. The future of Nigeria’s unity and Tinubu’s presidency hangs in the balance.
