2027: How Wike, Akpabio’s power play could cost Tinubu South-east, group warns

The Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu has raised alarm that a Federal High Court ruling recognising Rochas Okorocha as the All Progressives Congress candidate for Imo West could deepen political tensions in the South-East and weaken President Bola Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term in 2027.

In a statement signed by its National President, Hon. Gbenga Owojori, the group said the judgment has altered calculations around the Senate presidency and risked shutting out a leading Southeast contender before the next Senate is even formed. It argued that Governor Hope Uzodinma, who previously served in the Senate, should be allowed to pursue his political ambitions according to the rules. Supporters of the governor see him as a credible option for the Senate presidency and claim he already enjoys support from political leaders across party lines.

The group noted allegations circulating among critics that Senate President Godswill Akpabio has an interest in blocking Uzodinma as a potential rival. It also pointed to claims that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike played a role in pushing the legal challenge. Those claims, the statement said, have been linked by some observers to Akpabio’s earlier support for Wike during his dispute with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Uzodinma’s supporters have further accused Wike of repeatedly boasting that he would “deal with Hope.” The group described Wike as a “meddlesome interloper” and cited allegations that the minister has claimed in certain circles he could replace President Tinubu if the doctrine of necessity were invoked over concerns about the President’s health.

“These are serious claims and should not be treated as established facts,” the group stated. “The judgment must be assessed on its legal merits, and the statements attributed to Wike require clarification. Given the political consequences of the ruling, the public deserves confidence that no political pressure has influenced the judicial process.”

It insisted that Uzodinma should be judged on his record, experience and the support he commands, and that no candidate should be excluded simply to protect another politician’s ambitions. The APC, it said, must keep its nomination processes transparent.

The group warned that the fallout could reach beyond Imo State. If Southeast leaders conclude that their support for the administration is not matched by fair representation, dissatisfaction could weaken party unity, reduce grassroots mobilisation and make it harder for Tinubu to expand his base ahead of 2027.

“The President needs a united party and the confidence of political allies across the country,” the statement said. “If the Southeast believes its support is welcome only when votes are needed, but its candidates are obstructed when power is being shared, the consequences could extend well beyond Imo State.”

The group also flagged claims that certain political actors had boasted of installing Ifeanyi Ararume as governor, along with allegations involving Ade Tinubu, described as the President’s daughter’s fiancé and personal physician. It said those claims require substantiation and a response from those named.

It called on the APC leadership to address the concerns through transparent processes and inclusive dialogue, stressing that Tinubu’s second-term prospects depend in part on the unity of the party and the trust of its regional partners. A fair opportunity for Governor Uzodinma, it argued, would help preserve confidence in the APC, while further marginalisation of the Southeast could deepen regional disaffection and weaken the coalition the President will need in 2027.