By Mandy Park
The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has declared five former governors from the South-East states persona non grata, accusing them of political betrayal as the region begins to position itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Those named by the group include David Umahi, Sullivan Chime, Chris Ngige, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.
The announcement was made on Sunday during a press briefing in Enugu by the OYC National President, Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, who alleged that the affected politicians had failed to protect and advance the collective political interests of the South-East region.
Igboayaka stated that the decision followed extensive consultations among youth stakeholders across the five South-East states, insisting that the move was necessary to send a strong message against what he described as “continued compromise and betrayal” of the Igbo cause.
He argued that the region’s political future must be driven by leaders who are committed to unity, equity, and strategic engagement at the national level.
According to him, the declaration effectively bars the affected individuals from participating in youth-driven political engagements and consultations within the region, warning that their actions in the lead-up to previous elections had weakened the bargaining power of the South-East in national politics.
The OYC further accused the named leaders of aligning with political interests that allegedly undermine regional aspirations, particularly in the context of agitation for greater inclusion and representation at the federal level.
The group maintained that with the 2027 elections approaching, the South-East must adopt a more coordinated political strategy to avoid a repeat of past outcomes.
Observers note that the declaration reflects growing tensions within the region’s political landscape, as youth groups and civil society organizations increasingly demand accountability from political elites.
Analysts also say it underscores the broader debate over the South-East’s place in Nigeria’s power dynamics, especially amid calls for a more unified political front.
While the affected politicians are yet to officially respond to the declaration, political watchers expect reactions in the coming days, as the development could further reshape alliances and influence political calculations ahead of 2027.
The Ohanaeze Youth Council, a youth wing of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body, has in recent years taken a more assertive stance on issues affecting the region, often calling for political reforms, youth inclusion, and a clearer articulation of what many describe as the “Igbo agenda” in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
