ABAKALIKI, EBONYI STATE — A socio-political group representing Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo Federal Constituency in Ebonyi State, Oganivu Ohanivo, has declared its support for the presidential candidacy of Mr Peter Obi and his running mate, Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ahead of the January 16, 2027 presidential election.
The group made its position known in a statement dated October 29, 2026, issued ahead of Obi’s presidential campaign town hall meeting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
The statement was signed by Uneke Anayo, spokesperson of Oganivu Ohanivo; Comrade Solomon Okorie, representing Ohaozara Local Government Area; Dr Agwu Nwogo, representing Onicha LGA; and Mr Tony Ajah, representing Ivo LGA.
Why Oganivu Ohanivo Endorsed Peter Obi
Explaining its decision, the group said it had critically examined the leadership records, antecedents and manifestos of the presidential candidates before settling on Obi.
According to the group, the former Anambra State governor distinguished himself through what it described as integrity, good conscience, compassion and leadership capacity.
It specifically highlighted Obi’s proposed commitment to making at least 10,000 primary healthcare facilities fully functional, improving educational standards, expanding access to digital technology and increasing food production through substantial investment in agriculture.
The group also endorsed Obi’s economic philosophy of transitioning Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based economy, creating employment opportunities for young people and strengthening small-scale businesses.
It argued that these proposals address some of Nigeria’s major economic and developmental challenges.
Cites Obi’s Record as Anambra Governor
Oganivu Ohanivo further justified its endorsement by referencing Obi’s eight-year tenure as governor of Anambra State.
The group described him as a prudent administrator who reduced the cost of governance and redirected public resources towards critical sectors, including education, healthcare and security.
It also cited his administration’s savings and investments, arguing that his approach to public finance contrasted with what it described as the widespread culture of borrowing and debt accumulation among Nigerian political leaders.
The group maintained that Obi had not been linked to any established case of corruption or misappropriation of public funds during his tenure and subsequent years.
It said Nigeria needed leadership that prioritised accountability, economic productivity and the welfare of citizens.
Raises Concerns Over Nigeria’s Economic and Security Situation
The endorsement statement painted a troubling picture of Nigeria’s current socioeconomic conditions.
Oganivu Ohanivo cited inflation, widespread poverty, inadequate access to quality healthcare, out-of-school children and insecurity affecting agricultural activities as major challenges confronting the country.
It argued that these problems underscored the importance of careful consideration of the candidates seeking to lead Nigeria from 2027.
The group also accused the current administration of corruption and negligence, insisting that Nigerians needed a change in leadership priorities.
Says Ohanivo Voted Overwhelmingly for Obi in 2023
The group declared that residents across the ten major clans making up the constituency supported Obi during the 2023 presidential election.
The clans listed in the statement are Abaomege, Akaeze, Ishiagu, Isu, Okposi, Onicha, Oshiri, Uburu, Ugwulangwu and Ukawu.
According to Oganivu Ohanivo, the people of the constituency are prepared to support Obi again in the January 16, 2027 election.
It declared:
“We declare affirmatively that ndi Ohanivo are strongly with Mr Peter Obi and Dr R.M Kwankwaso and are actively supporting their candidacy.”
The group also cautioned against individuals or organisations claiming to speak on behalf of the entire constituency while expressing political positions contrary to its declared endorsement.
It stressed that the people of Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo were politically conscious and capable of making independent electoral decisions.
Oganivu Ohanivo Sends Strong Message to Umahi
In a significant part of the statement, the group addressed the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, warning him and his political associates against attempting to dictate the political choices of the people of Ohanivo.
The group accused Umahi and some of his political mentees of attempting to exercise undue influence over the constituency.
It insisted that the people would resist any attempt to bully, intimidate, manipulate or coerce them into supporting political candidates against their wishes.
“You will fail woefully. You cannot dictate or decide for Ohanivo people,” the group declared.
It further advised the minister to concentrate on his ministerial responsibilities rather than make what it described as embarrassing statements on national television.
Faults Umahi Over Agbani-Nara-Isu-Onicha-Okposi Road
Oganivu Ohanivo also questioned Umahi’s performance as Minister of Works, particularly concerning the condition of the Agbani-Nara-Isu-Onicha-Okposi (F113) federal road.
The group described the road as the most important federal road in its area and accused the minister of failing to ensure its reconstruction.
It argued that Umahi should prioritise addressing infrastructure challenges affecting his own constituency rather than attempting to dictate its political direction.
Quoting the popular expression, the group told the minister: “He who lives in a glass house should not throw stones.”
It maintained that the people of Ohanivo had resolved to take their political destiny into their own hands and would no longer allow themselves to be taken for granted by politicians.
The allegations concerning the road and the minister’s alleged political interference were contained in the group’s statement.
Welcomes Obi and NDC Campaign Team to Ebonyi
Concluding its statement, Oganivu Ohanivo welcomed Peter Obi and members of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential campaign team to Ebonyi State.
It also encouraged residents of Ohaozara, Onicha and Ivo to attend the campaign town hall meeting scheduled for Citi-Hub, Abakaliki, on October 29, 2026.
The group expressed optimism about the NDC presidential ticket, declaring its readiness to work with Obi and Kwankwaso towards what it described as building a new Nigeria.
The statement ended with the declaration:
“Indeed, a new Nigeria is POssible!”
Background
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday, January 16, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections.
Oganivu Ohanivo’s endorsement adds to the political declarations and support-group activities surrounding the 2027 presidential contest.
