An Alternative Roadmap to Southeast Presidency: A Northern-Backed Peter Obi in 2027 and Strategic Balance by 2039

By Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu

While the strategy of Ndi Igbo entering the presidency through the vice presidency in 2027 appears pragmatic, there exists a more just, bolder, and politically balanced alternative: a Northern-backed Peter Obi presidency in 2027 for one term, followed by a Southeast Vice President from 2031 to 2039.

This route is not just feasible, it is a necessary correction to decades of Southeast political displacement.

1. The Historical Context of Displacement

Since 1966, the Southeast has not produced a Nigerian president. Every other major zone has had its time:

Northwest: Buhari (2015–2023)

South-South: Jonathan (2010–2015)

Southwest: Obasanjo (1999–2007), now Tinubu (2023– )

North Central: Military era (Gowon)

Northeast: Atiku, repeatedly considered, but never actualized

The Southeast, despite being a founding block of Nigeria, has remained systematically marginalized. Supporting Peter Obi to complete the South’s rotation for a single term is not merely symbolic, it restores justice.

2. Why Peter Obi in 2027 Is Politically Logical

Peter Obi is one of the most nationally accepted candidates from the Southeast in decades. In the 2023 elections, despite running on a relatively new platform (Labour Party), he:

Scored over 6.1 million votes

Won in 11 states and the FCT, including major cities like Lagos and Abuja

Secured significant youth and diaspora support

Unlike previous Igbo aspirants, Obi has already achieved nationwide visibility and support. Backing him for a single term allows:

Fulfillment of the South’s rotational turn

A peaceful transition of power to the North in 2031

Northern political actors to retain long-term influence by negotiating the VP slot for 2031

3. Northern Strategic Interest in a One-Term Presidency

A one-term presidency by Peter Obi, agreed upon by the North, provides a win-win framework:

Stability: A single term avoids power entrenchment fears.

Continuity: The North can return in 2031 with a VP already in place.

Peace-building: Rebuilds North–East trust after years of separatist tension.

In return, the North gets to nominate a Southeast VP candidate in 2031, giving that zone continuous visibility and federal executive presence from 2027 to 2039.

4. Countering the Southwest Monopoly

If we allow another Southwest presidency after Tinubu in 2027, the South will have been dominated by the Yoruba for a cumulative 16–20 years (Obasanjo 1999–2007, Tinubu 2023–2031).

This creates a dangerous imbalance that can fuel resentment and deepen ethnic mistrust. The Southeast cannot continue to play second fiddle in a rotation that disproportionately favors one region.

Obi’s presidency offers a national reset and avoids another cycle of Yoruba dominance.

5. Addressing Security Concerns as Part of the Deal

Many Southeasterners are rightly concerned about Fulani herders, banditry, and illegal settlements. A deal with the North to support Obi can include:

Federal legalization and support for state police

Dismantling of unauthorized forest encampments

Northern endorsement of regional security frameworks with oversight

A binding federal-Southeast peace and development pact

These are realistic, negotiable, and enforceable.

6. Economic Logic of a Southeast Presidency

The Southeast accounts for over 40% of Nigeria’s SME activity.

Igbo businessmen contribute massively to northern markets.

A Peter Obi presidency would prioritize fiscal discipline, infrastructure, and private sector growth, all beneficial to the North.

Economic interdependence should be a foundation for political alliance.

A Just Path to National Unity

The Southeast deserves more than symbolic inclusiveness. It deserves a real shot at the presidency, starting with Peter Obi in 2027.

A Northern-backed Obi presidency, limited to one term, followed by a Southeast vice presidency from 2031 to 2039, is a strategic roadmap to healing Nigeria’s political wounds and restoring equity.

It gives the North influence, the Southeast justice, and the nation a balanced federation.

Let us not recycle injustice. Let us reset Nigeria with strategy, fairness, and vision.

Hon. Chimazuru Ignatius Nnadi-Oforgu is a former house of representatives candidate, a national and international political commentator, an Igbo rights advocate, and media entrepreneur.

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