Southeast former governors unite, back Tinubu’s re-election bid

Umahi said the forum was established to provide strategic support and advisory services to serving governors in the zone on “key zonal and national matters,” regardless of political party affiliations.

“The forum shall be for all former governors, irrespective of party affiliation, so long as they have been governors in the Southeast,” he stated.

He explained that the initiative was conceived after deliberations among members, noting that although attendance at the inaugural meeting was not exhaustive due to medical trips and other engagements, the forum expects over 90 per cent participation at its next meeting scheduled within two weeks.

Among those absent, Umahi mentioned former governors with prior engagements, including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Theodore Orji of Abia State; Chief Ikedi Ohakim l, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, and Chief Achike Udenwa of Imo State; Chimaroke Nnamani, among others.

The forum commended the performance of incumbent Southeast governors, particularly in infrastructure development, empowerment programmes, and security interventions, describing their efforts as impactful on the lives of the people.

In a significant political declaration, the former governors collectively endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, describing the move as “strategic.”

“We boldly say that all the governors of Southeast are supporting Mr. President’s re-election,” Umahi said, adding that the forum would align with this position and offer its full backing.

The communiqué also praised Tinubu for what it described as “key appointments” given to sons and daughters of the Southeast, as well as ongoing infrastructure development projects across the region.

The forum further acknowledged federal support to state governments nationwide, which it said has contributed to achievements recorded by governors.

As part of its next steps, the forum disclosed plans to pay a courtesy visit to the Governor of Enugu State and subsequently engage the leadership of the Southeast Governors’ Forum to formally present its objectives and explore areas of collaboration.

Umahi emphasised that the group’s overarching goal is to “synergise” with current leaders and help communicate government achievements to the people, while also offering guidance based on their experience in office.

Those present at the meeting included Chief Martin Elechi and Senator Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State; Mr. Sullivan Chime and Amb. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu and Dr. Chris Ngige of Abia and Anambra States, respectively.