The Igbo Agenda Dialogue (IAD) announced on Wednesday in Abuja that it officially endorses [Peter Obi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Obi) of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as its preferred candidate for the 2027 presidential election, and also supports former Kano State governor Senator [Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabiu_Musa_Kwankwaso) as his running mate. The declaration urged eligible Igbo voters to mobilise in support of the ticket.
Chief Dr Chekwas Okorie, National Chairman of the IAD, said the endorsement followed a comprehensive assessment of the aspirants' records, leadership capacity, integrity and commitment to public service. He added that the group consulted widely with Igbo unions, market associations, women’s organisations, youth groups and civil‑society bodies both in Nigeria and the diaspora before reaching a consensus. “We came to the unanimous resolution that it will be in the best interest of Nigeria to elect Mr Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress as the President of Nigeria,” Okorie stated.
What criteria guided the IAD’s endorsement?
Okorie explained that the decision was driven by the need for a leader who could address Nigeria’s challenges through compassionate leadership, prudent management of public resources and a clear focus on national development. He highlighted Obi’s ability to attract support across ethnic and religious lines, offering Nigerians a chance to choose a president based on competence and accountability.
Why does the IAD stress Igbo voter mobilisation?
The chairman noted that Igbo people constitute a sizable share of the national electorate and that their coordinated participation could significantly influence the election outcome. He pledged that the IAD would intensify its mobilisation efforts through its networks to secure victory for Obi and Kwankwaso in 2027.
How does history shape the endorsement?
Okorie recalled past instances of Igbo political collaboration that promoted national unity, such as the alliance between the National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC) led by Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe and the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) which helped form the First Republic government under Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa. He also referenced the partnership between the Nigerian Peoples Party and the National Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic, and the support Igbo leaders gave to the Peoples Democratic Party during the 1999 transition to civilian rule.
What is the IAD’s appeal to other Igbo politicians?
The chairman urged Igbo politicians backing other presidential candidates to focus on policy issues rather than engage in divisive rhetoric. He cited historical examples, such as the election of Fulani politician Alhaji Umaru Altine as mayor of Enugu in the First Republic, to illustrate the long‑standing tradition of cross‑ethnic cooperation.
In concluding remarks, Okorie called on all Nigerians to reject divisive tendencies and support leadership that prioritises public welfare and national development. The IAD reaffirmed its commitment to intensify campaigning for Obi and Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 presidential election.