The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the apex sociocultural youth organization of the Igbo race worldwide, has accused former Imo State Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, of undermining African Democratic Congress (ADC) aspirants in Imo State who are loyal to Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential ambition.
In a press statement delivered in Owerri on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, OYC National President, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, alleged that the council had uncovered a conspiracy orchestrated by Ihedioha to sabotage ADC aspirants aligned with Obi.
Allegations Against Ihedioha
According to the OYC, Ihedioha has been working covertly to promote former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the preferred presidential candidate of the ADC, despite resistance from aspirants supporting Obi.
Confidential reports cited by the council suggest that one senatorial aspirant in Imo openly challenged Ihedioha’s alleged maneuvers, accusing him of attempting to impose Atiku on the party.
Comrade Igboayaka claimed that Ihedioha has adopted a “strategic and chameleonistic tactic” to avoid backlash from Imo citizens, while secretly mobilizing support for Atiku as part of his own 2027 gubernatorial ambition.
Political Crack in ADC Imo Chapter
The OYC statement highlighted a growing division within the ADC’s Imo State chapter:
- Atiku Abubakar’s supporters, allegedly led by Ihedioha, are mobilizing aspirants for Senate, House of Representatives, and State Assembly positions.
- Peter Obi’s supporters, led by a senatorial aspirant, insist that the ADC must respect the principle of zoning and cede its presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria, particularly the Southeast.
This split, according to the OYC, threatens to destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
OYC’s Ultimatum
Comrade Igboayaka issued a stern warning to Ihedioha, demanding that he publicly declare his support for the Southeast presidential project within 24 hours.
The council urged Ihedioha to:
- Lead a campaign on national television, radio, and newspapers advocating that the ADC cede its presidential ticket to the Southeast.
- Cease all alleged efforts to sabotage ADC aspirants in Imo State who are loyal to Obi’s presidential bid.
Broader Implications
The accusations underscore the fragile state of opposition politics in Nigeria, where internal divisions and competing loyalties threaten to weaken collective efforts against the ruling party.
Analysts note that the Imo ADC crisis reflects a larger struggle within opposition ranks over zoning, candidate selection, and regional representation. The outcome could significantly influence the strength of the Obi/Kwankwanso alliance and the broader opposition strategy for 2027.
The OYC’s press statement has intensified political tensions in Imo State, placing Ihedioha at the center of controversy. Whether he responds to the ultimatum or continues his alleged support for Atiku could determine the trajectory of ADC politics in the Southeast and shape the opposition’s prospects in the 2027 elections.
