Chief Sam Onuigbo, an All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, has called on top politicians of Igbo extraction to unite and negotiate with leaders from other ethnic blocs to secure the best political outcomes for their people ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on the importance of strategic political engagement, Onuigbo, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia-North and South in the House of Representatives, stressed that without proper consultation and negotiation, the interests of the Igbo people in Nigeria’s political space would not be maximally served.
“The Ndi Igbo have demonstrated their commitment to the unity, progress, and prosperity of the country, investing in virtually every part of Nigeria,” he said. “Their level of engagement shows their belief in a strong, united, and prosperous Nigeria.”
Onuigbo commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC), aimed at addressing the devastation of the region during the civil war. He noted that the commission should ideally have been created immediately after the war and praised its current deployment for reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction.
He also expressed support for the creation of additional states in the South East, stating it was unfair for other zones to have six states while the South East has only five.
On broader governance issues, Onuigbo remarked on recent coups in some West African sub-regions, noting that such agitations stem from demands for good governance. He urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s administration and his reforms to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach citizens.
“President Tinubu needs our support and encouragement to ensure that the reforms he brings on board succeed,” he said.