The Igbo community in Edo and Delta States has begun rallying massive support for Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.
This comes amid reports that Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, allegedly threatened Obi over a recent visit to Benin City without prior notice.
In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday, Chief Ekene Okpara, the Coordinator-General of the Igbo Unity Forum, expressed the group’s deep concern about Nigeria’s worsening economic situation under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.
“Nigerians are facing the most difficult times in recent history,” Okpara said, expressing frustration over inflation, unemployment, and poor infrastructure.
Obi’s 2027 Bid Gains Early Momentum
Chief Okpara announced that the Igbo Unity Forum has officially launched a grassroots campaign aimed at delivering no fewer than five million votes for Peter Obi in the 2027 election, regardless of the political party platform he chooses.
He said the group’s resolve was strengthened by the alleged statement made by Governor Okpebholo, who reportedly insisted that Obi must seek permission before visiting Edo State.
“That statement alone has strengthened our resolve to mobilize across the country and the diaspora. Peter Obi represents competence, accountability, and hope for the common Nigerian,” he added.
“Governor Okpebholo Should Focus on Governance”
Describing the governor as a “meddlesome busybody,” Okpara advised Okpebholo to focus on delivering good governance in Edo rather than chasing after political controversies.
The Forum also used the opportunity to call on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate steps to address the economic hardship and infrastructural decay currently plaguing the nation.
“The suffering in Nigeria is unbearable. People can barely feed, and power supply is worse than ever. We urge the President to act now,” the statement read.
Call to Action
The Igbo Unity Forum is calling on residents of Edo and Delta States, as well as other Nigerians in the southeast and nationwide, to begin early mobilization efforts and support Peter Obi’s vision for a better Nigeria.
