Obiechina Decries Exclusion of Obi and Nwobodo from Ex-South East Governors' Forum
Prominent estate developer and politician Alex Chukwuemeka Obiechina has strongly criticized the composition of the newly proposed "Forum of Former South East Governors," labeling it as misleading and unrepresentative. In a press briefing held in Abuja, Obiechina expressed deep concerns over the exclusion of key political figures such as Jim Nwobodo, Okwesilieze Nwodo, and Peter Obi from the initiative.
Allegations of Political Deception Ahead of 2027 Elections
Obiechina warned Nigerians to be wary of what he described as a deceptive political maneuver, particularly with the 2027 general elections on the horizon. He alleged that certain individuals within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are actively fueling confusion in the South East region to position themselves as pivotal players in the re-election campaign of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to Obiechina, the forum is not a collective effort but rather the project of a single individual, lacking the genuine input and endorsement of former governors from the region. "When you talk about credible leaders of the South East, particularly those who made lasting impacts, you must mention Nwobodo, Nwodo, and Obi," he emphasized.
Questioning the Legitimacy of the Forum
Obiechina further questioned the legitimacy of the forum, pointing out that a recent gathering in Enugu was merely a factional meeting of APC members who oppose the leadership of Hope Uzodimma. Uzodimma currently chairs both the Progressives Governors' Forum and the South East Governors' Forum.
He also suggested that former Ebonyi State Governor David Umahi might be attempting to retain political influence despite no longer holding office. Obiechina argued that no such body could be considered credible without proper consultation and the involvement of both former and incumbent governors across all five South East states.
Broader Political Aspirations and Calls for Democratic Integrity
On the broader political landscape, Obiechina reiterated the South East region's aspiration to produce Nigeria's next president in 2027. He noted that both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have fallen short in addressing the zone's concerns and meeting the expectations of its people.
In a call to action, Obiechina urged the judiciary and electoral stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and safeguard Nigeria's democracy. Citing former President Goodluck Jonathan, he stressed the importance of placing national interest above personal ambition. "No ambition is worth the blood of Nigerians. We must protect our democracy," he declared.
This development highlights ongoing political tensions and strategic positioning within the South East, as key figures navigate the complex dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
