The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has made a fresh call for Nigerians to support the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

Speaking on Sunday, Umahi disclosed that prior to the 2023 elections, the seventeen southern Governors agreed that, irrespective of party affiliations, the presidency must be allowed to return to the south.

He therefore advocated that, in line with the agreement, President Tinubu should be allowed to complete his eight years in office in the interest of equity and political stability.

On the agitation for the southeast to produce Nigeria’s president, Umahi stated that the region deserves it, but should wait for Tinubu to complete his two terms before contesting for the presidency.

He argued that it would be wrong for anyone to demand a power shift before 2031.

Speaking in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Sunday, the Minister said, “It is not yet the time of the south-east.

“We, the 17 southern governors, met in Asaba before the 2023 elections and agreed that power should move to the south, regardless of party.

“The crown eventually came upon President Bola Tinubu, and he must be allowed to complete his eight years.”

Umahi insisted that it is not yet the turn of the southeast, adding that other regions can vie for the presidency when Tinubu completes his two terms.

He said, “The eight years he took are for all of us, both the south and the north.

“When he finishes, the south-east can contest, having never held the position before. The north-east too can vie when the time comes.

“For me, it is not yet the time of the south-east.

“When it comes, we have sons and daughters who are eminently qualified to contest.”

Umahi added that there are individuals from the region who are “more competent” than some of those currently pushing for the position.

He argued that while the southeast might have been neglected in political appointments in the past, the Tinubu administration has corrected such marginalizations.

He described Tinubu as a leader who treats all Nigerians equally.

“The south-east might complain about not having many appointments, but the position of minister of works is equivalent to five grade A ministries,” he said.

Apart from political appointments, Umahi said the Tinubu government has executed a good number of quality projects in the southeast and should be appreciated.

“Yes, acknowledge the past, but also focus on the realities of today.

“We should be clapping with our hands and legs for President Bola Tinubu.

“My appointment as minister of works is not just a position; it is what we have used it to achieve for the entire country,” he said.