Former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has warned the Igbo against gambling with their political future in the 2027 elections, urging the South-East to consider strategic alliances when deciding which presidential candidate to support.
Speaking during an interview with Arise News on Thursday, Okorocha argued that the region should assess its political options based on what would advance its interests, rather than make decisions solely on the basis of personal loyalty or regional sentiment.
“Why should Igbos gamble the four years?” he asked.
Okorocha said the South-East needed to adopt a more strategic approach to the election, including considering possible alliances with other political groups.
“We must do politics of strategic alliance,” he said.
Although he expressed support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Okorocha said his personal affection for him should not prevent the region from considering other political options.
“I love him more than you can think,” he said.
He also gave his assessment of the North’s possible position in the 2027 election, suggesting that some voters in the region might prefer President Bola Tinubu because he would have only one more four-year term if re-elected.
“The north would tell you they prefer a Tinubu of four years, who has just four years left to finish so he can go back to them,” he said.
Okorocha argued that bringing political interests together could help the South-East secure greater support in the election.
“It’s better to bring them together, just to make sure we show up a very massive vote for the South East,” he said.
He urged political leaders and voters in the region to remain open to different political possibilities and engage in conversations about the consequences of their choices ahead of the election.
“We have to be open-minded and teach our people,” he said.
Okorocha maintained that the South-East should approach the 2027 elections with a clear understanding of its political interests and the importance of building alliances beyond the region.
Ademide Adebayo
Follow us on:
