Lagos APC Chieftain, Idimogu, urges Obi to drop presidential bid, support Tinubu’s 2nd term

As Nigeria’s 2027 election unofficially takes center stage, the country’s political landscape is witnessing a flurry of strategic alliances and realignments.

Against this backdrop, influential voices are weighing in on the unfolding drama, with some calling for unity and others sparking controversy.

Recent developments, including Lagos All Progressive Congress (APC), Chieftain and former Lagos lawmaker, Hon Sir Jude Chukwuemeka Omobowale Idimogu’s surprise call for Peter Obi to drop his presidential ambitions and support President Tinubu’s re-election bid, have sent shockwaves through the nation’s political circles.

The need for the southern part of the country to come together to ensure the power remains in the south has become germane.

Hence, the Deputy Leader of Ndigbo in Lagos APC, Idimogu, urged the Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi, to drop his presidential ambition and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2nd term bid in 2027.

He made his position known during an interaction with journalists over the weekend.

The two-term lawmaker disclosed that his advice has become necessary as it would be extremely difficult for Obi to defeat Tinubu in any political platform in the next presidential election.

Idimogu said, “I strongly believe in this appeal to Obi; he should support Tinubu as both leaders are from the South.”

He said that Obi’s ambition would only divide Southern votes again and weaken the region’s chances in 2027. “This is the South’s turn. Let’s not allow another Southern candidate to disrupt the zoning and help Northern interests,” he emphasized.

The lawmaker compared the situation to Buhari’s eight-year presidency, where northerners united behind their candidate despite public dissatisfaction. He said, “Tinubu deserves full support. He cannot undo Nigeria’s problems in two years. With unity, progress is possible,” he stated.

Idimogu made it clear that a united Southern backing for Tinubu would guarantee a fair outcome and preserve the region’s hold on power.

While acknowledging Obi’s right to run, Idimogu urged Igbo leaders to prioritise regional interest and back Tinubu’s second term.

He appealed to Northern politicians to also support Tinubu to complete a Southern presidency for equity and national stability.

According to him, constructive criticism and alternative solutions from the opposition are welcome, but unity must take precedence.

Idimogu, who is the only Igbo politician to have served two tenures in the Lagos State House of Assembly, said, “Neither People’s Democratic Party (PDP) nor African Development Congress (ADC) has a candidate strong enough to unseat Tinubu.