Nwodo Accuses APC of Marginalising South‑East, Predicts Backlash Ahead of 2027 Elections

Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo, former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and ex‑Governor of Enugu State, has criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he describes as unfair treatment of the South‑East region of Nigeria. Nwodo said the APC has struggled to gain genuine support there because many people view it as a party that has historically oppressed the zone under successive administrations, including the eight years of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the current government of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking on a national television programme, Nwodo argued that defections by some political leaders to the APC do not reflect the sentiments of the broader population in the South‑East. He said the general public remains disillusioned with the party’s performance and perception of marginalisation.

Nwodo warned that the APC could face a major electoral setback in the 2027 general elections, recalling the strong support the South‑East gave to the Obidient Movement and former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi in the 2023 polls. He suggested that worsening economic conditions could further fuel voter dissatisfaction with the ruling party.

While criticising the APC’s national leadership and its handling of regional issues, Nwodo emphasised that voters in the South‑East have learned to follow their conscience at the ballot box, implying that the region may seek alternatives in future elections.