Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called on the South-East region to exercise patience in its quest for the nation’s presidency, stating that it is not yet the region’s turn to produce Nigeria’s leader. Speaking with reporters in Abuja on Sunday, Umahi emphasized the principles of political fairness and continuity, insisting that President Bola Tinubu must be allowed to complete his constitutionally permitted eight-year tenure before power rotation can be revisited.
“It is not our time yet,” Umahi said. “We, the 17 Southern governors, met in Asaba before the 2023 election and agreed that the next president should come from the South, regardless of political party. We all tried, but the crown came upon President Bola Tinubu. He is from the South, so it would be wrong for the South-East to now claim it is their turn.”
The former Ebonyi State governor argued that Tinubu’s presidency represents a mandate for the entire southern region, not just the South-West. “The eight years he is serving belong to all of us — both the South and the North. When he completes his tenure in 2031, the South-East can then vie for the position, since we have never had the opportunity before,” he stated.
Umahi also suggested that the North-East would be in legitimate contention when Tinubu’s tenure ends, pointing to both zones as the only regions yet to produce Nigeria’s president. “When equity and fairness are established, rotation will be something everyone can take pride in,” he said.
While acknowledging that the South-East has faced political marginalization in the past, Umahi said the situation has improved significantly under President Tinubu’s administration. “Right now, President Bola Tinubu does not care where you come from. He treats everyone fairly,” he said, noting that appointments under the current government reflect a broader sense of inclusion.
Defending the level of representation from the region, Umahi said the Ministry of Works — which he heads — carries significant national importance. “Some in the South-East may complain about not getting many appointments, but the position of Minister of Works is equivalent to five grade-A ministries. There was a time we held numerous positions, yet that did not translate into tangible development. The real measure of inclusion is impact, not titles,” he stated.
Umahi maintained that the South-East will have its opportunity when the time is right, stressing that the region boasts capable and qualified leaders ready to serve. “When our turn comes, we have sons and daughters who are eminently qualified to lead this country,” he added.
