He urged youths and stakeholders across the zone to embark on mass registration into the ruling party to secure the region’s political future.
Umahi made the call at his country residence in Umunaga Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, where he addressed APC supporters and stakeholders following the party’s primary victory of his son, Osborne Nweze Umahi, as the party’s chairmanship candidate for Ohaozara LGA.
The minister described the APC as the only platform capable of delivering sustainable development, political inclusion, and national representation for the Southeast, warning that the region cannot afford to remain politically isolated.
“Let everybody go and register in APC. There is no alternative,” Umahi said, urging a concerted membership drive across all Southeast states.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s efforts to address longstanding grievances in the region, particularly the agitation for secession, which he said was born out of years of neglect.
“The President has defied all the agitation from Biafra. We are not living on sentiments,” he stated, insisting that political advancement for the Southeast cannot be achieved through emotional rhetoric or intimidation.
Umahi emphasized that the region must focus on concrete achievements and participation in national politics rather than resorting to protest and agitation.
He said the current administration had begun correcting historical imbalances, adding that the Southeast would eventually produce a credible presidential candidate when the time is right.
“The time of God is the right time,” Umahi said, urging the Southeast to remain patient and united under the APC platform.
The minister also defended the federal government’s road infrastructure projects, describing them as transformational and essential to national development.
He dismissed criticisms and protests over road conditions, saying such actions should be directed towards constructive engagement rather than political blackmail.
Umahi further promised that his son, if elected as chairman of Ohaozara LGA, would prioritize rural development, road construction, youth empowerment, and healthcare improvement.
He assured supporters of a smooth transition and urged unity among party members.
“As we approach 2027, the Southeast must position itself strategically within the APC. The region’s future depends on active participation and commitment to the party’s agenda,” he said.
