Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi to reassess his decision to pursue the 2027 presidency, saying that the electoral defeats suffered by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the bye-election was a sign of a bleak future.
Ohanaeze stated that it observed the failure of all candidates fielded by the ADC, sent shockwaves throughout the nation and fueled public discontent regarding the opposition’s ability to effectively challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
The pan- lgbo organisation noted that the outcome of these bye-elections has revealed a staggering reality touted as a potential counterbalance to the APC, which has demonstrated an alarming inability to galvanize the electorate.
In a statement issued on Monday by it factional Deputy- President General, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro and made available to journalists, noted that the defeat starkly contradicts claims that the Southeast is uniformly aligned with Obi, exposing the frailty of his influence and diminishing his standing among his erstwhile supporters, the so-called “Obidients.”
Part of the statement read “Ohanaeze Ndigbo finds it necessary to convey this candid assessment to the leaders of the opposition coalition.The electoral turmoil that has befallen the ADC serves as a clear signal that the party is too weak to present any credible alternative to the APC.
“The expectations of the Nigerian populace that the ADC would secure at least one seat—if not a simple majority—during these bye-elections have been thoroughly dashed.
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“This bleak outcome has engendered skepticism regarding the ADC’s capacity to mount a meaningful challenge in future electoral contests.
“In light of this reality, Ohanaeze urges the ADC leadership to undergo a profound reevaluation of its strategies and engagements.
“The time for superficial social media activity has passed; the ADC must seek direct and substantive engagement with the electorate, advocating for crucial electoral reforms that resonate with the needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
“The Igbo populace, known for their political acuity, is increasingly unwilling to gamble on a frail opposition.
“The consequences of such a risk could be dire, particularly in light of the evident shift in political allegiances.
“The evidence of a palpable conspiracy against his political ambitions appears to be mounting, and ignoring this reality could jeopardize any potential electoral strategy he may envision.
“It is critical for Obi and his supporters to understand that the political landscape is shifting, a change that could well favor the incumbent if they do not adapt to the evolving sentiments of the electorate.
“The trajectory of the Southeast political landscape is being crafted anew. With leaders like Senator David Umahi at the helm, it is becoming increasingly apparent that a commanding majority of Southeast votes is likely to gravitate towards President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming elections.
“These leaders are acutely aware of the prevailing currents, and ignoring their counsel could lead to severe repercussions for any opposition forces unprepared to respond to the demands of the electorate.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo asserts that the recent electoral defeats are not mere coincidences, but rather indicative of a larger narrative surrounding the efficacy of the ADC and the broader opposition landscape.
“It is a sobering call to action for all stakeholders involved, compelling them to rethink their strategies and renew their commitment to the ideals of representation, accountability, and genuine political engagement.”
