The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has called for the South East region to support the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027, saying that it would strengthen the chances of the zone to produce the President of the country in the future.

Umahi further asked the zone to resist what he described as “darkening counsel without knowledge” aimed at deceiving the people into believing that an Igbo presidency is achievable in 2027.

Umahi, in a statement made available to The Guardian, said that President Tinubu has demonstrated unwavering love and fairness to the South East and called on the people to reciprocate by supporting his reelection.

The minister said: “We must not be deceived again. The President must have the votes of the South East up to 90% to cement this relationship. Enough of darkening counsel without knowledge in the South East. We must rise to educate our people. If we want to be President, we must avoid the politics of hate, misinformation, and sentiments.

“We must support other regions, and with God, one day, other regions will support us. Mr. President must be supported to complete his tenure of 8 years, which all regions are benefitting from. One day, we will be number one, but not in 2027. I will vocally continue to stand against any mischief to deceive our people. We are known for hard work and love, not hate.

“I commend our leaders who are the South East Governors for their support and the great works they are doing for our people. I want our people to please support them along with our dear President for their second tenure in their respective offices.”