South-East Support Not For Sale — Umahi Says Kanu’s Case Is A Legal Matter, Not Political Currency

Speaking to journalists on Friday night in Lagos, Umahi debunked claims that the region was tying its political allegiance to Kanu’s freedom.

Someone asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his release is not a condition for the South-East’s backing of the President,” Umahi stated. “We are open to discussions regarding his release, but it must not be treated as a bargaining tool—after all, the President is not responsible for his incarceration.”

The former governor of Ebonyi State praised President Tinubu as a reform-oriented leader whose policies have renewed international confidence in Nigeria.

“Tinubu may not be perfect, but he’s making the right moves,” Umahi added. “Look at the economic situation he inherited. The global community trusts his reforms, and that’s why we’re securing international support for our development projects.”

He highlighted ongoing infrastructure developments in the South-East, particularly the rehabilitation of long-neglected roads, as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to the region.

Responding to accusations that the South-East is being sidelined in federal appointments, Umahi insisted that the current administration had given the region more prominence than past governments.

“Critics of the President should show us their own track record,” he challenged.

Umahi called on political leaders from the South-East to unite in support of President Tinubu, regardless of party affiliation, noting that even opposition governors were cooperating well with the Federal Government.

On speculations about his political ambitions, Umahi made his stance clear: “I will not contest in 2027. I will support President Tinubu. The APC is our best route forward. The South-East now has a strong presence at the centre. We will not go back to Egypt.”