2027: Why Obi Is Not A Threat To Tinubu, APC – Umahi

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has declared that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi’s presidential ambition poses no threat to President Bola Tinubu or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Umahi dismissed suggestions of anxiety within the governing party regarding Obi’s influence, particularly across the South-East region. Describing the opposition figure as his “brother” and “friend,” the minister maintained that political dynamics in the zone have shifted significantly.

Umahi noted that his position on integrating the South-East into mainstream national politics remains unchanged, recalling how he previously urged the region to support former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“As a governor, go and watch my utterances. When Buhari was there, I publicly asked the South-East to give Buhari 25 per cent,” Umahi stated, adding that while he supported Atiku Abubakar in his home state during that election, his stance was driven by the imperative for the South-East to actively participate in national governance.

Addressing the 2027 contest, the minister observed that Obi would not be the sole presidential candidate emerging from the South-East, as several other aspirants from the region are also preparing to contest.

“Peter is not a threat. The point is that really, he’s not a threat to me as far as I’m concerned, and my party, and to Bola Tinubu. No, he’s not,” Umahi asserted.

While insisting he was not underestimating the former governor, Umahi argued that political rhetoric must be weighed against tangible track records of public service.

“Why should I underestimate him? He’s saying what he will do. I’m saying what we are doing,” Umahi remarked, challenging contenders seeking national leadership to showcase their achievements.

“I’m saying what I did as governor of Ebonyi State. Any of these people that are talking about they want to rule the country, they should open the video to show how they developed their communities when they occupied the position.”

He highlighted key projects delivered during his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State—including the state university teaching hospital and an international airport—as concrete proof of performance.

When asked about reported realignments and the emergence of a “Rainbow Coalition” among opposition politicians, Umahi reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the APC while describing Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike as his close friend and brother.

“No, Ebonyi is very unique. No, it’s only the APC that is edible. No Rainbow. Even if it is a rainbow or whatever you call it, there’s nothing like that,” he concluded.