Ohanaeze to Tinubu: End Yorubanization, embrace competence or face 2027 betrayal

The apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as his administration marks its second year in office, warning that continued incompetence within his government could lead to widespread political betrayals ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Wednesday, signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General, and Chief Thompson Ohia, National Spokesman, Ohanaeze declared that “there is nothing to celebrate” two years into President Tinubu’s tenure.

While praising the exceptional work of Senator Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, and Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for their visible infrastructural achievements, the group lamented what it described as a government marred by “experimental leadership and incompetent appointees.”

According to Ohanaeze, Nigerians are facing “untold hardship” as a result of poor economic management, soaring inflation, and growing food insecurity.

The organization accused the President of promoting a “Yorubanization agenda” that threatened national unity and called for a cabinet reshuffle based on competence rather than ethnicity or loyalty.

Part of the statement read: “This is an urgent call to action… President Tinubu must put an end to ethnic favouritism and introduce proven leaders into the fold.

“If the status quo persists, those responsible for his government’s failures will abandon him before 2027.”

Ohanaeze further urged Tinubu to take bold steps to address the nation’s hunger crisis, reform ineffective economic policies, and ensure the creation of two new states in the Southeast to improve regional balance and representation.

The group also emphasized the importance of incorporating ethnic and religious identities in the forthcoming 2025 National Census, arguing it would help restructure Nigeria in a way that reflects its diversity and aids electoral reforms.

In a clear political warning, Ohanaeze said the President risks losing support from Northern allies who may pivot to the opposition unless urgent corrective measures are taken.

They also pointed out that the Igbo community, widely spread across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas, could prove decisive in securing Tinubu’s reelection — but only if his government embraces inclusive governance and meritocracy.

“This is a defining moment for President Tinubu to choose between narrow ethnic interests and national renewal,” the group concluded.