In a significant political statement, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has effectively given the Igbo people the 'Biafra' they have long sought. Umahi made this assertion in his New Year message, framing it as a result of what he termed the absolute inclusion of the South East in national politics under the current administration.
From Marginalisation to National Integration
The former Governor of Ebonyi State emphasized that the era of neglect for the region is over. He stated that President Tinubu serves as a consolation to Ndigbo for years of marginalisation by previous governments. According to Umahi, the Biafra that was fought for and is still sought by some has now arrived, not through secession, but through national integration and acceptance as equal partners in Nigeria's development.
He called for a social reengineering and deradicalisation of remaining minds to embrace this new reality of inclusion. "The Biafra Ndigbo fought for, sought, and are still seeking has come through national integration and acceptance as equal participants in national development," the Minister said.
A Pledge for 2027 and a Warning Against 'Sugar-Coated' Promises
Umahi issued a strong appeal for the people of the South East to remain resolute in supporting President Tinubu's anticipated re-election bid in 2027. He argued that the region must rewrite the wrong of the 2023 general election by speaking loudly in unison with massive votes for the President.
"Our people will never make the mistake of 2023," Umahi declared. "We shall remain resolute and stand strongly together behind Mr. President in the 2027 election. Ndigbo will not be deceived again by marauding politicians with sugar-coated mouths."
He directly addressed speculation about other candidates, asserting that President Tinubu will be on the ballot in 2027, and that the collective interest of the South East lies with him. "Once he’s on the ballot, all the Governors of the South East are on the ballot, and myself, the Minister of Works, is also on the ballot," Umahi stated, framing support for Tinubu as support for the region's future.
Infrastructure Assurance and Post-Yuletide Safety
Linking the political message to his ministerial portfolio, Senator Umahi provided updates on federal infrastructure projects. He assured that all ongoing federal road projects across the country are receiving adequate funding and supervision, with most set for completion on record time and to specification.
For immediate safety concerns, the Minister announced that a special task force will be formed to enforce a ban on trucks parking on federal highways. He said the Ministry of Works will collaborate with security agencies to ensure the highways are safe for travellers returning to their destinations after the Yuletide season.
Concluding his message with optimism, Umahi declared that the worst period of the nation's history is over, crediting the administration's robust economic policies. He predicted that the coming year would witness a massive turnaround in all sectors of the Nigerian economy.
