Ohanaeze Ndigbo, apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has said that without comprehensive electoral reforms, the much-expected Igbo presidency would be impossible.
Ohanaeze said it is compelled by its unwavering commitment
to the well-being and future of Ndigbo to address the prevailing political
landscape and its potential ramifications for the people, particularly in the
context of the forthcoming 2027 polls.
This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday by
Ohanaeze’s factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and
made available to DAILY POST in Abakaliki.
According to the statement, “The prevailing realities,
unfortunately, necessitate an honest and unflinching assessment.
“Our considered observation reveals that the current
vulnerabilities within the electoral system, coupled with the existing
political dynamics, present a significant impediment to any opposition
candidate challenging the incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027
elections, unless comprehensive electoral reforms are implemented.”
Part of the statement read: “It is with deep regret that we
must acknowledge the uncomfortable truth: the integrity of the electoral process
is demonstrably weakened. The systemic loopholes and potential for manipulation
within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cannot be ignored.
“These weaknesses, if left unaddressed, create an
environment ripe for exploitation by those seeking to maintain power, thereby
jeopardizing the prospects of a fair and credible election.
“The implications of INEC’s proposed reliance on manual
processing and the potential abandonment of the electronically transmitted
results, as a substitute for electronic transmission of votes to the INEC
portal, further amplify these concerns.
“Such a shift would disproportionately favour those with the
means and motive to manipulate the process, ultimately disenfranchising a
significant portion of the electorate and discouraging meaningful
participation.
“Against this backdrop, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, acting in the best
interests of Ndigbo, feels obliged to issue this poignant advisory: any Igbo
individual considering a presidential bid in 2027 must, therefore, recognize
the inherent limitations of the current environment.
“Engaging in a contest under these conditions, without
significant electoral reforms, may prove a costly and ultimately futile
endeavor.
“Such an undertaking could not only squander valuable resources
but also risk undermining the political fortunes of the entire Southeast
geopolitical zone.
“Consequently, Ohanaeze implores prospective Igbo
presidential candidates to re-evaluate their aspirations, prioritising the
urgent needs of our region, including the pressing challenges of insecurity and
economic revitalization.”
Ohanaeze noted that while it acknowledged the constitutional
rights of all citizens to pursue their political ambitions, it is equally
committed to delivering the unvarnished truth, no matter the personal cost.
“The stark reality is this: WITHOUT MEANINGFUL ELECTORAL
REFORMS, VICTORY IN THE 2027 ELECTIONS IS EXTREMELY UNLIKELY.
“The potential consequences of supporting an Igbo candidate
who cannot defeat the incumbent president are significant. The economic
well-being of our people is intimately tied to political stability and fair
play.
“The failed presidential bid could expose innocent Igbo
traders and businesses to potential vulnerabilities, particularly within
significant economic hubs across Nigeria, most notably in Lagos.”
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