Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, APC, to tender a sincere and unreserved apology to Ndigbo over grievances arising from the administration of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, particularly regarding perceived discrimination, political marginalisation, insecurity, and the treatment of the Southeast.
Ohanaeze said it believes the 2027 presidential election presents President Tinubu with a historic opportunity to rebuild confidence between the Federal Government and Ndigbo by acknowledging past grievances, demonstrating a genuine commitment to equitable governance, and presenting a credible political and developmental agenda for the Southeast.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Ohanaeze’s factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa, and made available to journalists.
The organisation maintained that the Buhari era left deep concerns among many Igbo people regarding their place in the Nigerian federation, saying that controversial public remarks attributed to the former President, perceptions of unequal treatment, and persistent security challenges contributed to feelings of alienation and heightened political tensions in the region.
The pan-Igbo organisation stated that these grievances must be addressed honestly if Nigeria is to strengthen national unity and restore confidence in its democratic institutions.
Ohanaeze further observed that the escalation of separatist agitation in the Southeast cannot be understood without examining the political frustrations, security concerns, and feelings of exclusion expressed by sections of the population.
While the organisation said it does not endorse violence or unlawful activities, it insisted that the Federal Government must recognise the importance of justice, constructive engagement, and respect for fundamental rights in addressing the underlying causes of instability.
“The protection of innocent citizens, irrespective of ethnicity or political affiliation, must remain an uncompromising responsibility of government.
“President Tinubu has an opportunity to distinguish his administration by pursuing a different path—one defined by fairness, reconciliation, inclusive governance, and a demonstrable commitment to the security and development of the Southeast.
“An honest acknowledgment of past grievances would not diminish the authority of the Presidency; rather, it would demonstrate the confidence and statesmanship required to unite a diverse nation,” it said.
Ohanaeze said that although it acknowledges the infrastructure initiatives undertaken by the Tinubu administration in the Southeast, but emphasised that infrastructure development alone cannot erase years of political distrust or automatically translate into electoral support.
“Roads and public projects are important, but they must be accompanied by equitable political representation, economic opportunities, improved security, and a clear assurance that Ndigbo enjoy the same rights, dignity, and opportunities as other Nigerians,” it added.
The organisation therefore urged the Presidency and the APC to move beyond electoral calculations and engage Ndigbo in sincere dialogue on the region’s political future and developmental priorities.
“The Southeast must not be approached merely as a reservoir of votes to be mobilised during election campaigns and forgotten after electoral victories. It deserves a meaningful place in national decision-making, with its concerns treated as legitimate issues of national importance,” it said.
Ohanaeze considered it appropriate for the APC to give serious consideration to supporting a credible Southeast candidate for either the Senate presidency or the Speakership of the House of Representatives in the political arrangements following the 2027 elections, subject to constitutional requirements, parliamentary procedures, and the decisions of elected lawmakers.
The organisation also called for equitable access to strategic ministerial portfolios, influential federal appointments, and major infrastructure investments for the Southeast, adding that political inclusion should not be reduced to ceremonial recognition but must be reflected in opportunities to shape national policy, influence economic decisions, and participate meaningfully in the administration of the federation.
Furthermore, Ohanaeze urged the Federal Government to give serious consideration to the proposed deep-sea port at Akwaete in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.
According to Ohanaeze, the project should undergo transparent technical, commercial, environmental, and financial assessments, alongside a clear framework for federal engagement and implementation if it is found to be viable.
2027: Correct grievances arising from Buhari’s regime – Ohanaeze tells Tinubu, APC