2027: Igbo Elders Tell Umahi He Cannot Decide South-East’s Voting Choice
By Ben GBOR
The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has faulted remarks attributed to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, over the presidential ambition of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, insisting that no individual, regardless of political office or status, has the authority to determine the political choices of Ndigbo.
Umahi was reported to have said he was not attacking Obi but was urging people of the South-East not to vote for him in the forthcoming presidential election.
Reacting in a statement signed by its Director-General, His Lordship Alpha Justice Ikpeama, UNIEC described the remarks as inconsistent with the democratic traditions of the Igbo people, stressing that decisions concerning the future of Ndigbo have never been the exclusive preserve of any individual.
The council noted that the Igbo are renowned for their republican philosophy, independent judgment and consultative culture, adding that political choices remain the constitutional right of every citizen.
“As a non-partisan consultative, advisory and policy institution, UNIEC Worldwide does not endorse or oppose any political party or candidate.
“Our responsibility is to uphold constitutional democracy, promote responsible leadership, safeguard the collective interests of Ndigbo and encourage peaceful civic participation.
“Under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, every citizen has the fundamental right to freely choose the political party or candidate of his or her choice without coercion, intimidation, undue influence or external direction,” the statement said.
The council cautioned political leaders, particularly public office holders, against making statements capable of heightening political tension or overheating the polity ahead of the 2027 general election.
It maintained that no individual, irrespective of position or influence, possesses the constitutional, moral or traditional authority to dictate the voting decisions of the South-East or speak exclusively on behalf of the Igbo nation.
“The Igbo people have, throughout history, been recognised for their republican philosophy, independent judgment and consultative tradition. Decisions affecting the future of the people have never been the exclusive preserve of any individual, irrespective of public office or political status.
“As our elders wisely say, no single tree makes a forest, and no single voice speaks for an entire people,” UNIEC stated.
The group urged political leaders to exercise restraint, mutual respect and statesmanship in their public engagements, emphasizing that democratic contests should be driven by ideas, policies, performance and service to the people rather than divisive rhetoric.
It also called on the people of the South-East and Nigerians at large to remain peaceful, law-abiding and politically responsible throughout the electoral process, urging voters to assess candidates based on competence, integrity, vision, commitment to national unity, economic development, security, justice and constitutional governance.
UNIEC further warned against allowing personal political interests to override the collective aspirations and democratic rights of citizens, insisting that leaders must respect the freedom of the electorate to make independent political choices.
