Former Lagos State House of Assembly member, Jude Idimogu, has called on Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to shelve his 2027 ambition and instead support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

 

According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on Monday, Idimogu — who serves as Deputy Leader of Ndigbo in Lagos APC — made the appeal during an interview on Sunday in Lagos, stressing that Obi’s continued pursuit of the presidency could “split Southern votes” and weaken the region’s ability to retain power beyond 2027.

 

“Tinubu deserves full support. He cannot undo Nigeria’s problems in two years. With unity, progress is possible,” Idimogu said.

 

The APC chieftain argued that the South must rally behind a single candidate in order to maintain political relevance and protect its interests at the national level.

 

He expressed confidence in Tinubu’s capacity to secure a second term, insisting it would be extremely difficult for any opponent — including Obi — to unseat him in the 2027 election.

 

Idimogu also urged Igbo leaders to “look at the bigger picture” and throw their weight behind Tinubu, saying such support could pave the way for the South-East to secure more significant roles in government.

 

“For the South to maintain political relevance, it must rally behind a single candidate who can deliver victory,” he said.

 

Beyond the South, Idimogu called on Northern leaders to back Tinubu as well, drawing parallels with how the region supported former President Muhammadu Buhari throughout his eight years in office despite criticism.

 

He added that Tinubu’s administration needs more time to address Nigeria’s deep-seated challenges, arguing that with unity and patience, the country can witness meaningful progress.