– Nnamdi Kanu’s release not a condition for support, says Umahi
– President Tinubu has done more for the South East than many past leaders
– I’m not running for president in 2027, I’ll support my boss — Umahi
Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State Governor, Senator Dave Umahi, has thrown his full weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, declaring that the South East will continue to back the president without any preconditions.
Umahi made this known during a media chat with journalists on Friday night in Lagos, where he dismissed claims that the region was demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a prerequisite for political support.
“We Are Not Placing Conditions” — Umahi
“Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South East to support Tinubu.
We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him there,” Umahi explained.
He added that Kanu’s case should be approached with maturity and diplomacy, noting that President Tinubu is a listening leader who believes in justice and dialogue.
Tinubu’s Reforms Are Working — Umahi
The Works Minister praised Tinubu’s economic reforms and their impact on international partnerships, especially in infrastructure development.
“President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right. Look at where he picked up the economy from.
The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects,” he noted.
Umahi highlighted major road and bridge projects in the South East under Tinubu’s administration, stating that previous governments failed to deliver what is now being achieved.
“I’m Not Running for President, I’ll Support Tinubu” – Umahi
Amid rumours about his future political ambitions, Umahi was firm in his position:
“I will not run. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu. APC is the path to achieving what we want. The South East now has a voice at the centre. We will not return to Egypt,” he declared.
He also addressed concerns about federal appointments, asserting that Tinubu has given the South East more relevance than many of his predecessors.
“Let those criticising the president show us what they have done for the country,” he challenged.