The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has said grievances about marginalisation in the South-East have been addressed by President Bola Tinubu, expressing confidence that the region will deliver overwhelming support for the President in the 2027 election.
Umahi made the remarks on Saturday while inspecting ongoing construction at the Alaoji axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway. He said infrastructure projects and federal appointments under the current administration demonstrate a renewed commitment to the region.
“All the marginalisation we complain about has been addressed by the President,” Umahi stated. “Unless we are not being truthful to ourselves, there is no more marginalisation in the South-East.”
The minister argued that the scale of road rehabilitation and reconstruction across the zone reflects deliberate efforts by the federal government to close development gaps. He cited ongoing works on major corridors linking the South-East with other parts of the country as evidence of progress.
Umahi further said that while political aspirations in the region remain legitimate, it is “not yet the turn” of the South-East geopolitical zone to produce Nigeria’s president. He urged political leaders and stakeholders to prioritize national unity and collaboration.
According to him, the Tinubu administration has shown inclusiveness and responsiveness to long-standing concerns, adding that such gestures would shape electoral outcomes in the future.
“I am confident that the South-East will reciprocate these efforts,” Umahi said, predicting that the President could secure up to 90 per cent support from the region in 2027.
His comments come amid ongoing debates about zoning, equity, and political representation ahead of the next electoral cycle. Calls for a South-East presidency have intensified in recent years, with proponents citing fairness and rotational balance.
During the inspection, Umahi expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the Alaoji section of the expressway, describing the project as critical to economic activities and regional integration. He commended contractors for adherence to specifications and timelines.
The Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway is a strategic artery connecting commercial hubs in the South-East and South-South. Its rehabilitation is expected to ease transportation challenges, enhance trade, and reduce travel time.
Political observers say Umahi’s endorsement underscores efforts by the administration to consolidate support across regions through infrastructure delivery. However, analysts note that voter sentiment in 2027 will likely depend on broader economic conditions, security, and governance outcomes.
There was no immediate reaction from opposition parties, though stakeholders continue to debate the minister’s assertion that marginalisation concerns have been fully resolved.
