2027: NDC’s Obi Not a Threat to Tinubu — Hope Uzodimma

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has dismissed concerns over the emergence of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and its reported zoning of the 2027 presidential ticket to the South, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firmly positioned for re-election.

Uzodimma spoke to journalists in Abuja after participating in the All Progressives Congress (APC) screening exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections, where he said the ruling party remains united and confident of victory at the polls.

He described the screening process as smooth and procedural, noting that his long-standing membership of the party and previous public service roles made the exercise straightforward.

“It was a very good exercise. APC is one family and we know ourselves. Following the requirements of the party, I submitted myself for proper screening, and to the best of my knowledge, they are satisfied and I am eligible,” he said.

Reacting to the political convention reportedly held by the NDC earlier in the day, where opposition figures including Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso endorsed zoning of the presidential ticket to the South, Uzodimma downplayed its significance.

He maintained that the APC remains firmly in control of the political structure across the country, insisting that the opposition coalition lacks the strength to pose any real challenge.

“In a country of 36 states, 31 are sufficiently and transparently controlled by members of the APC,” he said.

“Look at that proportion. Thirty-one states are already for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. If you add states where the APC shares influence, you will see that Nigeria has spoken.”

The governor further questioned the organisational capacity of the emerging opposition bloc, arguing that it lacked a clear structure and national spread.

“We are not threatened by any party. First of all, this party that zoned the presidential ticket to the South, where is its head office?” he asked.

Uzodimma, who is also seeking election to the Senate to represent Imo West Senatorial District, said his immediate priority remains the mandate of his constituents rather than national political permutations.

“My ambition is to go to the Senate to represent my people. We don’t ask for leadership from the grassroots,” he said.

“When I get to the Senate, whatever rules we meet there, we will follow.”

His remarks reflect growing confidence within the APC as political activities intensify ahead of 2027, even as opposition leaders continue efforts to build a broader coalition ahead of the presidential contest.