2027:Stop attacking Peter Obi – Anglican Bishop cautions South East leaders

The Anglican Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Bishop Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, has cautioned South East political leaders to refrain from attacking NDC presidential candidate Mr Peter Obi. Speaking during a Diocesan Men’s Conference, Bishop Ibeabuchi warned that such attacks and division could harm the region’s political interests. He questioned the motives of some Igbo leaders who appear to consistently target Obi, demanding to know what they aim to achieve by publicly criticizing him.

Comparing the situation to other regions, Bishop Ibeabuchi noted a lack of similar levels of hostility against Igbo leaders from Yoruba and Hausa-Fulani political figures. He also criticized Igbo leaders’ role in the proscription of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), emphasizing a contrast with the continued freedom of other groups.

The bishop urged Igbo leaders with differing views on Obi to maintain silence and focus on their own duties. He urged them to refrain from personal attacks, instead concentrating on their own responsibilities. Bishop Ibeabuchi called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible election results in 2027, warning against potential manipulation of the electoral process, including through artificial intelligence (AI).

He expressed concerns over reports of political interference and challenged INEC to implement safeguards to ensure transparency, free and fair elections.