Apex lgbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has declared that only a comprehensive electoral reforms would guaranteed the expecting lgbo presidency come 2027 elections.
Ohanaeze said is compelled by its unwavering commitment to the well-being and future of Ndigbo to address the prevailing political landscape and its potential ramifications for the people particularly in the context of the forthcoming 2027 polls.
This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Ohanaeze’s factional Deputy President- General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and made available to journalists in Abakaliki.
According to the statement, the prevailing realities, unfortunately, necessitated an honest and unflinching assessment. Our considered observation reveals that the current vulnerabilities within the electoral system, coupled with the existing political dynamics, present a significant impediment to any opposition candidate challenging the incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections, unless comprehensive electoral reforms are implemented.
Part of the statement read” It is with deep regret that we must acknowledge the uncomfortable truth: the integrity of the electoral process is demonstrably weakened. The systemic loopholes and potential for manipulation within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cannot be ignored.
“These weaknesses, if left unaddressed, create an environment ripe for exploitation by those seeking to maintain power, thereby jeopardizing the prospects of a fair and credible election.
“The implications of INEC’s proposed reliance on manual processing and the potential abandonment of the electronically transmitted results, as a substitute of electronic transmission of votes to the INEC portal , further amplifies these concerns.
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“Such a shift would disproportionately favour those with the means and motive to manipulate the process, ultimately disenfranchising a significant portion of the electorate and discouraging meaningful participation.
“Against this backdrop, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, acting in the best interests of Ndigbo, feels obliged to issue this poignant advisory to any Igbo individual considering a Presidential bid in 2027 must, therefore, recognize the inherent limitations of the current environment.
“Engaging in a contest under these conditions, without significant electoral reforms, may prove a costly and ultimately futile endeavor.
“Such an undertaking could not only squander valuable resources but also risk undermining the political fortunes of the entire Southeast geopolitical zone.
“Consequently, Ohanaeze implored prospective Igbo Presidential candidates to re-evaluate their aspirations, prioritising the urgent needs of our region, including the pressing challenges of insecurity and economic revitalization.
Ohanaeze noted that it acknowledged the constitutional rights of all citizens to pursue their political ambitions; however, they are equally committed to delivering the unvarnished truth, no matter the personal cost.
“The stark reality is this: WITHOUT MEANINGFUL ELECTORAL REFORMS, VICTORY IN THE 2027 ELECTIONS IS EXTREMELY UNLIKELY.
“The potential consequences of supporting an Igbo candidate who cannot defeat the incumbent President are significant. The economic well-being of our people is intimately tied to political stability and fair play.
The Pan lgbo Organisation stated that the failed presidential bid could expose innocent Igbo traders and businesses to potential vulnerabilities, particularly within significant economic hubs across Nigeria, most notably in Lagos.
