The Igbo Heroes and Icons Foundation (IHIF) has asserted that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), does not require the endorsement or backing of incumbent state governors to secure overwhelming electoral support across the South-South geopolitical zone in the 2027 general elections.
The socio-cultural and political advocacy group made the declaration during a press briefing held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Addressing newsmen and political stakeholders, the National Spokesperson of the IHIF, Chief Ndukaku Ihe, stated that organic grassroots movements, coupled with widespread public dissatisfaction over economic conditions, have rendered traditional political structures and governor-led patronage networks increasingly ineffective.
”The political landscape of Nigeria, particularly in the South-South and South-East, has fundamentally shifted,” Chief Ihe declared during the briefing. “Voters are no longer dictated to by executive directives or state-controlled machinery. Peter Obi’s strength lies in direct engagement with ordinary citizens who desire genuine governance reforms and economic relief. He does not need the patronage of governors to win the South-South.”
The Foundation’s remarks came in response to recent statements by regional political figures suggesting that opposition candidates would struggle to secure traction without aligning with incumbent state leadership.
Joining Chief Ihe at the press conference were key executive members of the foundation, including IHIF Director of Public Communications, Dr. Stanley Uzoaru, and Regional Coordinator for the South-South chapter, Engr. Chinedu Nwankwo.
Dr. Uzoaru emphasized that the coalition of civil society organizations, youth groups, and professional bodies across the Niger Delta region is actively consolidating support for Obi ahead of the 2027 polls.
The foundation urged political actors across the country to focus on performance, accountability, and national development rather than relying on state apparatuses to influence electoral outcomes.
The IHIF concluded the briefing by reiterating its call for a free, fair, and transparent electoral process, expressing confidence that the South-South zone, alongside the South-East, will deliver decisive votes for the NDC candidate.
