Dave Umahi Tinubu 2027 Support plea draws backlash from PDP, ADC, LP who call it selfish and dismiss it as political survival, not regional interest

Dave Umahi Tinubu 2027 Support appeal has ignited a political firestorm, as opposition parties and regional leaders accused the Minister of Works of putting personal ambition above the collective interest of the South-East.

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Umahi, in a statement on Monday, urged the region to give President Bola Tinubu up to 90% support in the 2027 election, arguing that it would “cement the relationship” between the Igbo people and the presidency. But critics aren’t buying it.

From the PDP to ADC, Labour Party to NNPP, Umahi’s message was met with fierce backlash.

“In 2022, he wanted the presidency for the South-East. Now, he says we’re not ready. What changed?” asked PDP spokesperson Ken Asogwa, accusing Umahi of political self-preservation.

Many labeled the statement as hypocritical, divisive, and self-serving, especially considering Umahi’s past presidential aspirations.

Okechukwu Osuoha of the PDP emphasized, “He doesn’t speak for the South-East. He speaks for his job.” Bolaji Abdullahi of ADC called the remarks a “dubious cover” for prolonging APC power.

Even within the South-East, reactions were mixed. Some, like the Speaker of the Igbo Youth Parliament, backed Umahi, praising Tinubu’s “favorable” actions.

Others, like Chief Chekwas Okorie, were more reserved, admitting Umahi was just advancing APC’s partisan interest.

Meanwhile, APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, defended Umahi, stating that Tinubu’s achievements warranted widespread national support, including from the South-East.

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But for many, the message was clear: 2027 is not yet decided, and Umahi’s comments may have further fractured, rather than united, the region’s political direction.