Former South-East governors have publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid for the 2027 general election, marking a significant political development in the region. The announcement came after a maiden meeting of the newly formed South East Forum of Former Governors held in Enugu on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. The forum, which includes former governors Sullivan Chime, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Chris Ngige, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Martin Elechi, issued a communiqué affirming their support for Tinubu’s second term. The statement was read by Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi, who emphasized the forum’s mission to advise and support current South-East governors on regional and national matters.
The forum was officially established on April 7, 2026, with the goal of fostering unity among former leaders and strengthening collaboration with incumbent governors. Umahi noted that while several former governors, including Ikedi Ohakim, Orji Uzor Kalu, Chimaroke Nnamani, Theodore Orji, and Virginia Etiaba, were absent due to medical trips and other prior commitments, over 90 percent of the region’s former governors are expected to participate in future meetings. The group stressed that the forum is open to all former governors regardless of political affiliation, aiming to promote inclusivity and regional cohesion.
In their communiqué, the forum commended President Tinubu for appointing South-Eastern Nigerians to key positions in government and for advancing infrastructure projects across the region and the country. They also praised current South-East governors for their work in security, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment. Umahi affirmed that all serving governors in the South-East are aligned with the forum’s position and will continue to receive full support in their efforts.
The forum also revealed plans to engage directly with current governors to enhance collaboration and improve public awareness of government initiatives. Umahi clarified that the absence of former Anambra State governor Peter Obi from the meeting did not diminish the forum’s mandate, as broader participation is anticipated in subsequent gatherings. The group emphasized that it would not replace the existing South-East Governors’ Forum but would work in partnership with it to identify areas of mutual support.
This endorsement by former governors adds momentum to President Tinubu’s re-election campaign, particularly in the South-East, where political dynamics are closely watched ahead of the 2027 elections. The gathering underscores a growing consensus among regional leaders to support national leadership while advancing local development goals.
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