An Ohaneze Ndigbo chieftain, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, has called on Igbo politicians to shun any alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 general election.

He said such partnership will be in disregard of the gentleman’s agreement governing the rotational presidency.

Isiguzoro, in a statement, maintained that the conclusion of President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight year northern tenure led to a necessary transition of political power and leadership to Southern Nigeria from 2023 to 2031.

He said the transition is imperative to ensure the collective pursuit of equitable representation and governance amidst the country’s richly diverse national tapestry.

“Atiku Abubakar’s pursuit of a Northern political hegemony has irreparably tarnished his standing among the Igbo populace, signaling an affront to our aspirations for inclusion and representation in governance.

“His public statements reveal an exclusionary agenda that dismisses any Southern candidates, notably Mr. Obi, as potential leaders in the upcoming elections. The implications of his rhetorical choices suggest a desire to construe Mr. Obi merely as a running mate, rather than acknowledging him as a capable opposition leader with valid political weight.

“Ndigbo must rebuffs any political stratagem that seeks to subordinate the Igbo people or undermine our rightful place in the national discourse. It is critical for Ndigbo to lay emphasis on the ongoing infrastructural renaissance occurring throughout Southeastern Nigeria.”

Isiguzoro commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s dedicated focus on significant infrastructural developments currently underway in the Southeast adding that under Senator Dave Umahi, “we have witnessed the rehabilitation and construction of vital federal roadways.

Some of the roads include, “the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, the Calabar-Abakaliki-Benue-Abuja Road, and the Sokoto-Lagos Superhighways. These monumental projects not only enhance regional connectivity but also foster economic growth and integration.

“Considering the remarkable infrastructural advancements spearheaded by Senator Dave Umahi, the Igbo people must pledge their unwavering support to President Bola Tinubu. His resolute actions resonate harmoniously with our collective vision for progress, equity, and unity within our national framework.

“Atiku Abubakar has alienated himself from the Igbo people due to his unreserved endorsement of a Northern presidency,” he said.