By Chukwudi Obasi
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has said the reported defection of former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has weakened the opposition and strengthened the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement on Tuesday, the group warned that Obi’s political move risks fragmenting the opposition bloc, thereby improving President Bola Tinubu’s re-election chances.
The statement, signed by Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and National Spokesman, Chief Thompson Ohia, argued that Obi’s decision lacks the political structure required to secure victory against the incumbent.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo observes, without equivocation, that Mr Obi’s defection to the NDC lacks the structural robustness necessary to secure electoral victory in 2027,” the statement read.
The organisation added that Obi’s ambition has already “weakened the opposition coalition,” noting that a divided front, particularly between Obi and former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, could split votes and “effectively pave the way” for Tinubu’s victory.
It warned that such a scenario could have far-reaching implications for the South-East, including threats to Igbo investments, stalled regional development initiatives, and reduced political leverage at the federal level.
Ohanaeze further cautioned that continued fragmentation within the opposition may “consolidate APC dominance,” stressing that the political consequences would extend beyond the 2027 election cycle.
“This appeal is neither rhetorical nor negotiable—it is a clarion call to prioritise Igbo collective interests over personal ambition,” the group stated, urging Obi to reconsider his political direction.
The organisation maintained that strategic political alignment, rather than fragmented ambition, remains critical to preserving Ndigbo’s long-term interests and relevance in Nigeria’s power structure.
