2027: “I’ll Be on the Ballot” — Umahi Speaks on Contesting With Tinubu

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has declared that he sees himself as being on the ballot in the 2027 presidential election alongside President Bola Tinubu.

Umahi made the remark on Sunday while inspecting an ongoing road project. The minister said his political future is closely tied to that of the President, stressing that Tinubu’s re-election would ensure the completion of major infrastructure projects currently being executed across the country.

His comments come amid an ongoing exchange with the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, over their records in public office.

Speaking in a video circulated online, Umahi revealed that he had informed Obi that he considers himself part of the 2027 electoral contest whenever Tinubu seeks another term in office.

“I’ve told him that I’m on the ballot. You know, when President Bola Tinubu is on the ballot, I’m on the ballot.

“Because I don’t want this project to stop. I want it to be completed. So I want all of us together to win with President Bola Tinubu,” the minister said.

Umahi explained that his position was not about pursuing personal ambition but about ensuring continuity in government projects. According to him, ongoing road and infrastructure developments require stability and consistent leadership to reach completion.

The minister’s latest remarks come only days after a disagreement between him and Obi over a proposed public debate.

Umahi had challenged the former Anambra State governor to a public discussion where both men would present and defend their achievements during their time as governors.

However, Obi declined the invitation. The former Labour Party presidential candidate reportedly argued that Umahi was not qualified for such a debate, insisting that the minister should first emerge as a presidential candidate before seeking to engage him on that platform.