(DDM) — The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Sly Ezeokenwa, has stirred fresh political debate after suggesting that Peter Obi may not enjoy the same level of support from the South-East in the 2027 presidential election as he did during the 2023 polls.

Ezeokenwa made the statement during a media interaction with journalists in Lagos, where he discussed evolving political dynamics in the South-East region and the possible impact on future elections. According to him, the political environment across the region has changed significantly since the 2023 general election, and such changes could reshape voter alignments ahead of the next presidential contest.

His remarks come as political parties across Nigeria gradually begin positioning and strategizing for the 2027 elections, which analysts believe could feature intense competition among major political blocs.

During the 2023 presidential election, Obi, who contested under the platform of the Labour Party Nigeria, recorded overwhelming support in the South-East, a region widely considered his political base. Obi’s strong performance in the region was attributed to a combination of ethnic solidarity, youth-driven political mobilization, and dissatisfaction with the traditional dominant parties.

The former governor of Anambra State had previously served as a prominent figure within APGA before leaving the party years ago to pursue national political ambitions under different platforms.

However, Ezeokenwa argued that the political situation in the region is no longer the same as it was during the 2023 election cycle. He maintained that the South-East could become more politically competitive by 2027, suggesting that voters may reconsider their alignments depending on party strength, leadership structures, and political developments.

He further indicated that Obi could face strong political competition even within his home state of Anambra, where APGA has historically maintained a dominant political presence.

Anambra has long been regarded as the stronghold of APGA, with the party consistently performing strongly in state elections. According to Ezeokenwa, the party’s continued influence in the state demonstrates the loyalty of many voters to APGA’s political structure.

He referenced previous electoral outcomes in Anambra, including the most recent governorship election, as evidence of the party’s enduring grassroots support base.

Political observers say that APGA’s influence in the South-East, particularly in Anambra, has allowed it to maintain relevance despite the dominance of larger national parties.

Ezeokenwa also explained that the party is currently strengthening its political infrastructure across the region as part of its long-term electoral strategy. This includes mobilizing grassroots supporters, consolidating party structures, and expanding its reach in various South-East communities.

In addition, the APGA chairman revealed that the party’s alignment with the federal government is not a new political approach but rather part of its longstanding strategy of maintaining cooperative relations with the ruling administration.

According to him, such alliances are often intended to secure developmental benefits for states where the party has political influence.

Ezeokenwa therefore advised Obi not to assume that the political momentum he enjoyed in the South-East during the 2023 election will automatically translate into similar support in 2027.

“He should better not expect to enjoy the same level of support that he had in 2023,” he said.

His comments are likely to trigger further debate within the region, where Obi still commands significant popularity among supporters who view him as a reform-minded political figure.

Analysts note that although 2027 remains several years away, early political signals such as these often reflect emerging alliances, strategic positioning, and competition among parties seeking to consolidate influence ahead of the next presidential race.

(DDM) — The National President of the Organization of Igbo Communities (OIC), Major Chukwuemeka Ukason, has announced the dissolution of the group’s National Executive Council (NEC), citing the expiration of the council’s tenure and prolonged inactivity that has slowed the organization’s operations.

In an official notice released by the leadership of the organization, Ukason stated that the decision became necessary after the council reportedly remained largely inactive for more than three months. According to him, the inactivity had begun to hinder the smooth administration and overall progress of the group.

The dissolution, he explained, takes immediate effect and is aimed at repositioning the organization for renewed activity, stronger leadership coordination, and the fulfillment of its founding objectives.

The Organization of Igbo Communities (OIC) is a socio-cultural platform established to promote unity, cooperation, and collective development among Igbo communities living both within and outside Nigeria. The organization often functions as a coordination body for community leaders, youth representatives, and stakeholders seeking to strengthen Igbo identity, protect cultural heritage, and advocate for social and economic progress.

Over the years, similar Igbo socio-cultural organizations have played key roles in mobilizing community development initiatives, facilitating dialogue among leaders, and addressing issues affecting Igbo populations across different regions.

However, like many voluntary community organizations, leadership continuity and active participation have sometimes posed challenges. Sources familiar with the OIC structure say the National Executive Council is expected to coordinate programs, policy direction, and administrative decisions that guide the organization’s activities nationwide.

When the council fails to function regularly, observers say, it can stall projects, delay decision-making, and weaken coordination among various chapters of the organization.

Ukason, while announcing the dissolution, said the decision was not taken lightly but was necessary to ensure the organization remains active and capable of fulfilling its responsibilities to members and affiliated communities.

He emphasized that the move should be seen as a step toward strengthening the institution rather than a punitive action against any individual members.

“I sincerely appreciate and thank all members who served in one capacity or another during the tenure of the dissolved council,” he said in the statement.

The president acknowledged the contributions and dedication of former council members, noting that their service to the organization remains recognized and valued despite the administrative decision.

Analysts say such dissolutions are not uncommon in community-based organizations, particularly when leadership terms expire without immediate transition arrangements or when internal structures require restructuring.

Observers also note that leadership resets often provide opportunities for broader participation, new strategies, and renewed energy within civic groups.

Although the statement did not specify when a new council would be constituted, insiders suggest that consultations may begin soon to establish an interim structure or prepare for fresh leadership appointments.

For many members of the organization, the coming weeks are expected to determine how quickly the OIC can reorganize its leadership framework and resume full operational activities.

Ukason concluded his statement by wishing the former council members success in their future endeavors and encouraging continued commitment to the development of the organization and the wider Igbo community.

The announcement marks a significant moment for the Organization of Igbo Communities as it seeks to reset its leadership structure and chart a new path forward.

A PRESS RELEASE STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL PLANNING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN (NASEPCO)

Youth/women’s Participation in Politics: The Importance of Aspiring for Political Positions to Achieve the Federal Government’s and ADC party 35% Youth/women Inclusion Target

07/03/2026

One of the most regrettable, unfortunate, saddened, sorrowfully, painful, pathetic and grossly expensive statement that we cannot pass unto our children is the slogan or rather the believe that say, “Youths are the leaders of tomorrow”. Tomorrow that never comes.

The active participation of young people in politics today is utmostly essential for the growth, stability, and sustainability of democracy in Nigeria. As the nation continues to strive for inclusive governance, the role of youths/women’s in leadership and decision-making processes cannot be overemphasized.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has continued to emphasize the need for greater youth/women inclusion in governance, with policies and advocacies aimed at ensuring that young/woman occupy at least 35% of political cum leadership positions across the country. This initiative is designed to harness the energy, creativity, innovation, and fresh perspectives that young/women in Nigerians bring to nation-building.

Nigeria has a very youthful/women’s population, and this demographic strength should be reflected in the country’s political leadership. Unfortunately, youth/women participation in politics has often been limited to voting during elections rather than contesting for elective and appointive positions.

Also, the youths/women have always been used as objects of electoral malpractices and they end up killing themselves. Come to think of it, “who snatches electoral materials during election? Youths. Who are the police officers that will catch them? Youths. Who causes electoral malpractices as thugs and killers, Youths. Who are sent to either kill them or get killed as soldiers, Youths. Pathetic! Hilarious and utmostly unfortunate. Why should we remain like this? Why should we keep being used and maligned in the hands of these political bourgeoisies? Enough is enough. The earlier we take the bull by the horn, the better for our future and that of our children and children’s children.

To truly achieve meaningful representation, young/women’s must begin to aspire to political offices, participate in political parties, engage in policy discussions, and actively seek leadership roles.

Encouraging youths/women’s to contest for political positions is not only about representation but also about shaping policies that directly affect their future.

Young and women’s leaders are often more connected to contemporary issues such as education, employment, technology, entrepreneurship, and social development.

In addition, youth and women’s participation strengthens democratic institutions by promoting transparency, accountability, and innovative governance approaches. When young people are empowered to lead, they contribute significantly to national development and social transformation.

Stakeholders, including government institutions, political parties, civil society organizations, and community leaders, must therefore create enabling environments that support youth and women’s political participation. This includes providing mentorship, leadership training, fair opportunities within political parties, and reducing barriers that discourage young and women’s from contesting elections.

Young and Nigerians women are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities such as the *Not Too Young To Run* Act, which has lowered the age requirements for several political offices. This law serves as a clear signal that the future of Nigeria belongs to its youths/women’s and that they must take active steps toward leadership.

Achieving the 35% youth and women’s inclusion target requires commitment not only from government but also from the youths themselves. By stepping forward to contest political positions and actively engaging in governance processes. Nigerian youths/women’s can help shape a better and more prosperous future for the nation.

The time has come for young and women’s to move beyond being spectators in politics to becoming key players and decision-makers in the democratic process.

Come to think of it, most of our past leaders and political lords were at their twenties and thirties when they started pulling weight in this country. Remember some notable characters like General Yakubu Gowon, Late Major General Muhammadu Buhari, Aguiyi Ironsi, Sani Abacha, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Olusegun Obasanjo, etc, these gigantic political lords were at their twenties in late 60s when they shake this Nation politically and otherwise, but it’s quite regrettable that most of them still came back to rule us in their old age while we, the youths/women’s should fill the gaps. We need to be proactive politically; we need to be awake from slumber politically, we need to always bear in mind that youths and women’s are not just leaders of tomorrow but leaders of today. That ideological framework needs to be changed. And no one can change it if not you and I.

African Democratic Congress (ADC) supports YOUTH 35% inclusion and Women 35% Affirmation, therefore calls and solicits that youths/women’s who know that they have the capacity to aspire for any political position should come out. This is a clarion call to change the narratives. Come out lets make it happen.

We are the Youths/women’s and we are the pillar of our dear nation.

SIGNED:

*HON. JOSEPH ENAN MAGARI.*

PUBLICITY SECRETARY.

NATIONWIDE ASPIRANTS SEMINAR PLANNING COMMITTEE.(NASEPCO).

FOR:

CMR ABEL ABAJI.

CHAIRMAN.

NATIONWIDE ASPIRANTS SEMINAR PLANNING COMMITTEE.(NASEPCO).