April 12, 2026 | News
The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has declared five prominent Southeast political figures persona non grata across Igboland, accusing them of political betrayal ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Those affected include David Umahi, Chris Ngige, Okezie Ikpeazu, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Sullivan Chime—all former governors from the Southeast region.
The declaration was made during a press briefing in Enugu by the group’s National President, Igboayaka O Igboayaka.
According to the OYC, the decision was triggered by the politicians’ endorsement of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, which the group described as “self-serving” and detrimental to the interests of the Southeast.
“It is a tragedy that individuals who have benefited from the votes of our people are now compromising our future for their personal political survival,” Igboayaka stated.
The group further accused the former governors of ignoring critical regional concerns, including alleged marginalisation of the Southeast and the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu.
“Declaring support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu while ignoring pressing issues affecting Ndigbo is an act of extreme political betrayal,” he added.
In a strong-worded statement, the OYC called for social and political ostracisation of the affected leaders, urging residents across Igboland to boycott their activities.
“We call for total rejection of these individuals in all political and social engagements. Their actions amount to sabotage against the collective interests of our people,” the group declared.
The council also questioned the political relevance and performance of the leaders during their time in office, alleging that their recent moves were driven by personal interests rather than the welfare of the region.
Looking ahead, the OYC announced plans for what it described as a “ballot revolution” in the 2027 elections, encouraging massive voter participation to replace what it termed “expired leadership.”
“The 2027 movement will be driven by the power of the people through their PVCs to ensure accountability and true representation,” Igboayaka said.
The development signals rising political tension within the Southeast as alignments and endorsements begin to shape the landscape ahead of the next general elections.
SUNTV Global Channel reporting.
