South-East “No Longer OBIdient,” Now Backing Tinubu – Umahi

Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has declared that the South-East region, particularly Ebonyi State, has turned away from the Peter Obi-led OBIdient Movement and is now supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Umahi Speaks at New Yam Festival

The minister made the announcement on Saturday during the Ohanivo 2025 New Yam Festival in Onicha Local Government Area. He attributed the shift in political allegiance to years of perceived marginalization, which he said have made the South-East politically wiser.

“We are not OBIdient people. We have been so marginalized that we are no longer OBIdient. No, we are not. But it is the man that has given us a sense of belonging, President Bola Tinubu… There is no OBIdient person in Ebonyi,” Umahi said.

He urged citizens to recognize the developmental efforts and goodwill Tinubu has extended to the region, noting that past mistakes in voting patterns have taught the people to make more informed choices.

“The last election was a mistake, but we have come to be wiser,” he added.

Netizens React

Umahi’s comments sparked a flood of reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing skepticism, disagreement, or support:

• Rosemary Mosina Egedegbe: “Please speak for yourself because you have just one vote.”

• Stella Olatunji: “Is Umahi the owner of South-East?”

• Justice Chukwukere: “God punish you there idiot… can’t you see what this Yoruba government is doing to Igbos?”

• Sanni Shehu Shall: “Stop lying to the president. You don’t have control over your people.”

• Ibeawuchi Raymond: “Umahi… Deliver your ward first.”

• Abu Iro: “Tinubu has gained strong political influence in the South-East because Umahi has openly aligned himself with him.”

• Orodunsin Sunday: “PBAT will not rely on South-East votes in 2027; so if they like, they vote for or against him.”

• Tunde Ososanya: “Dave Umahi is the only Igbo politician I can vote for from the East to be President.”

• Ekene Anaebo: “Come to Main Market Onitsha to say this without security.”

• Uforo Udoekpo: “Keep dreaming, Oga minister.”

Political Implications

Umahi’s public endorsement of Tinubu signals a potential shift in political dynamics in the South-East ahead of 2027. While some commentators view his statements as reflective of personal opinion rather than the region’s collective stance, it highlights the growing influence of key regional politicians in shaping electoral outcomes.