Political analyst Tunde Simon has accused some political stakeholders in the South-East of deliberately weakening the stronghold of the 2027 National Democratic Coalition (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi. In a statement released on Friday, June 5, 2026, Simon expressed concern that influential actors within the region appeared more focused on protecting personal interests than strengthening Obi's movement.
Exclusion of Uchenna Harris Okonkwo Raises Concerns
Simon highlighted the sidelining of Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, son of the late Senator Annie Okonkwo and a long-time ally of Peter Obi, as a troubling development. He noted that this move was perceived as an attempt to dismantle a strategic pillar of support within Obi's political and business networks. Supporters argue that individuals such as Tony Nwoye, Senator Ben Obi, Prof. Osita Ogbu, Prof. Udenta Udenta, and Sam Egwu played roles in political manoeuvres that worked against the Obi movement.
Controversy Over Replacement with Bala Mohammed's Aide
Simon pointed out that the replacement of Uchenna Okonkwo with an aide to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed on the NDC platform has generated controversy. Critics described the decision as a departure from the values of integrity and competence that the movement stood for, weakening the principles that attracted millions of Nigerians to the cause of political reform.
Simon lamented that the situation is particularly painful because it originates from individuals within the broader South-East political establishment, who should have been protecting and strengthening the collective aspirations of the region.
Betrayal Threatens Political Reform
Simon warned that no movement can succeed when loyalty is rewarded with exclusion and sacrifice is met with betrayal. He said the events surrounding Uchenna Okonkwo's exclusion symbolize a larger struggle over the future of the movement, questioning whether those entrusted with leadership are truly committed to the ideals they publicly proclaim.
Recall that Kenneth Okonkwo previously claimed that voting for Peter Obi is a vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections, highlighting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) advantage due to defections from the Labour Party. Additionally, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike criticised Obi for lacking political courage, noting that leadership requires confronting and fixing existing problems.
