The Igbo community in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja has dismissed assertions by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is gaining traction in the South East region. The community described the claims as “gross exaggeration” and politically engineered, emphasizing that many Igbos still feel sidelined from Nigeria’s economic and political mainstream.
Engr Ikenna Ellis‑Ezenekwe, President of the Igbo Community Association, FCT, stated that President Bola Tinubu has “not done enough to deserve such an Uzodimma‑engineered endorsement.” According to him, the narrative around APC’s growing popularity in Igboland does not reflect the true sentiments of the people.
Uzodimma had recently rallied South East APC stakeholders to back Tinubu’s re‑election bid, arguing that the move would help reposition the region politically. However, the Igbo community rejected this narrative, calling it a desperate attempt to manufacture support for the ruling party.
Reacting in a statement on Sunday, Ellis‑Ezenekwe said:
“Igbos are not part of this endorsement. This is a sham, a publicity stunt by Uzodimma to boost his own political career.”
The group also urged other Nigerians to reject President Tinubu’s re‑election bid, citing what they described as his poor track record and lack of commitment to solving Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
Igbo Community’s Criticism of APC and Tinubu
The Igbo community criticized the APC’s presence in Igboland, saying:
“APC is not popular in Igboland. It’s only Uzodimma and a few others who are trying to force it down our throats.”
They also challenged Uzodimma’s claims that President Tinubu’s reforms have produced positive outcomes. According to Ellis‑Ezenekwe, the reality is far from what the governor described:
- Economy in shambles
- Rampant insecurity
- Suffering youth and communities
He questioned:
“What reforms is he talking about?”
The community called on the APC and the Tinubu administration to be accountable to Nigerians and address the issues impacting citizens instead of engaging in political theatrics.
Emphasis on National Issues Over Regional Politics
Ellis‑Ezenekwe stressed that the stance taken by the Igbo community goes beyond regional interests. He said:
“We want to see action, not just words. This is not just about Igbo; it’s about Nigeria’s future.”
The statement underscores the community’s demand for tangible progress on key national concerns, including economic stability, security, and inclusion in governance.
