Umahi: It’s Not Yet Time for South-East Presidency

Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has said the South-East region must exercise patience in its quest for the nation’s presidency, insisting that it is not yet the region’s turn.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Umahi stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be allowed to complete his two constitutionally guaranteed terms in office in line with fairness and political continuity.

> “No, it is not our time; it is not yet the time of the South-East,” Umahi declared. “Before the 2023 election, the 17 Southern governors met in Asaba and resolved that power should return to the South, regardless of political affiliation. We all worked for that goal, and the crown came upon President Bola Tinubu. Therefore, it is wrong for the South-East to now say it is our turn.”


The minister emphasised that President Tinubu’s eight years in office represent the collective mandate of the South and should be completed before any new rotation is considered.

> “He has to finish the eight years. The eight years belong to all of us both South and North. When he completes his tenure in 2031, the South-East can then legitimately vie for the position, as the region has never had the opportunity before,” he added.


Umahi also acknowledged past feelings of marginalisation in the South-East but urged the region to appreciate the current administration’s developmental efforts, particularly in infrastructure.

> “The South-East may say they did not get many appointments, but the office of the Minister of Works is equivalent to five grade A ministries,” he said.


He highlighted several ongoing federal projects in the region, including the Enugu–Onitsha, Port Harcourt–Aba, Aba–Umuahia, and Umuahia–Lokpanta highways, describing them as proof of President Tinubu’s commitment to balanced national development.

According to Umahi, Tinubu’s leadership style promotes inclusiveness and fairness.

> “President Tinubu does not care where you come from; he treats everyone fairly,” the minister said, urging South-East politicians to align with the current political realities.

> “Yes, we can acknowledge the past, but we must also recognise the progress being made today. Our turn will come, and when it does, we have capable sons and daughters ready to lead this country,” Umahi assured.