A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State, Paul Ikonne, has stated that the South-East region has become a stronghold for President Bola Tinubu. According to Ikonne, the region is expected to deliver a significant number of votes for the president in the 2027 election. Speaking on a television program, Ikonne emphasized that anything less than an overwhelming electoral showing for the president in the region would be unacceptable to party leaders.
The APC chieftain’s comments come on the heels of a recent endorsement of President Tinubu by South-East political leaders in Enugu. Ikonne, who is the immediate past Executive Secretary and CEO of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority, noted that the party is targeting more than a simple majority in the region. He suggested that the APC is aiming for a significant percentage of votes, potentially exceeding 70% or even 90%, given the caliber of party members and recent defections.
Ikonne explained that the party’s mobilization strategy extends beyond the geographical South-East to Igbo communities across the country. He cited the efforts of Governor Hope Uzodinma, who has set up a team to engage and sensitize Igbo communities in other states to support the president’s re-election bid. This strategy, according to Ikonne, will contribute to a significant number of votes from the South-East, both from those residing within the region and those living outside.
The APC leader also downplayed the influence of the Labour Party and its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the region. He pointed to shifting alliances and the decline of opposition support, citing the example of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, who has distanced himself from Obi and is reportedly leaning towards the APC. Ikonne’s comments suggest that the APC is confident of its chances in the South-East and is working to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 election. The outcome of this election will likely have significant implications for the region and the country as a whole.
