The Methodist Archbishop of Okigwe Archdiocese, Most Rev. Biereonwu Livinus Onuagha, has strongly declared that Mr Peter Obi becoming Nigeria’s president in 2027 would be the best thing to happen to the country.

In a recent statement, the bishop described Obi as intelligent, focused, and full of integrity, saying the former Anambra governor had what it takes to rescue Nigeria from its current struggles.

“Peter Obi is a good son of Ndigbo, sensible, intelligent, and focused. He has good intentions for Nigeria,” Archbishop Onuagha said.

However, the Archbishop admitted that Obi’s political journey has been heavily blocked by the ruling class and power brokers, saying if Obi is not allowed to run under the ADC coalition, Igbos should rally behind President Bola Tinubu for a second term.

Tinubu a better option than Northern return, says Onuagha

Archbishop Onuagha stated that although Tinubu’s government is not perfect, it remains a better option than handing power back to the North.

He described any attempt by Northern politicians to return to power in 2027 as unjust and selfish.

“In fairness, the North has capable people. But fairness demands that they should now step aside. Buhari, a Northerner, ruled for eight years. It's the South's turn,” he said.

He noted that power should rotate between regions and said Tinubu deserves to complete eight years, just like Buhari.

Criticises ADC coalition and El-Rufai’s involvement

Onuagha raised concerns about the new coalition forming under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), especially with former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai playing a role.

“Everyone knows El-Rufai’s activities during his time in office. Christians in Southern Kaduna have painful stories,” the Archbishop said.

He argued that if Obi is not made the presidential flagbearer of the ADC coalition, the alliance would likely collapse, and Northerners pushing for power would fail to win public support, Leadership reported.

Warns against political risk and military takeover

The Archbishop also warned Igbos and Obidients (Obi supporters) against making the wrong political choices, urging them to think deeply before taking action.

He said if efforts to make Obi president failed, supporting Tinubu would be the safest option to avoid a political crisis.

“If we give an inch and try to push Tinubu out without having Obi in, we may end up in a political quagmire,” he warned.

He added that any attempt to protest or destabilise the system could lead to a military takeover, which might bring uncertain leadership, Vanguard reported.

Archbishop Onuagha made it clear that Nigeria does not need another Northern president in 2027, emphasising that Southern Nigeria must complete its turn.

“South East, South West, South-South, and Middle Belt are all part of Nigeria. One section should not continue to dominate,” he said.

He concluded by urging all Nigerians to stand for equity and fairness, warning that handing power back to the North would be unacceptable.

“If we can’t have Obi, let’s listen to Dave Umahi and let Tinubu continue. North, it’s not your turn. Wait for the South to finish.”