David Umahi, minister of works and former governor of Ebonyi state, has announced the formation of a forum for former governors of the South-East region.
Umahi disclosed this while addressing journalists after the group’s inauguration on Tuesday, noting that the body was established on April 7, 2026, following deliberations among former leaders of the region.
According to him, the forum — to be known as the south-east forum of former governors — is aimed at supporting serving governors in the zone and providing advisory input on key regional and national issues.
“The Southeast Forum of former governors is formed today, 7th of April, 2026. The body is to support our serving governors of the southeast and advise them on key zonal and national matters,” he said.
He added that the forum would be non-partisan and open to all former governors of the region, regardless of political affiliation.
Umahi explained that several former governors were absent due to medical trips and other engagements but expressed optimism that over 90 percent of them would attend subsequent meetings.
Among those referenced were former governors, including Ikedi Ohakim, while Chris Ngige was present at the meeting.
Notably, Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra state and presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), was not present at the meeting, nor was his name mentioned as part of the forum.
The minister said the forum commended the efforts of current south-east governors in infrastructure, security, and empowerment, while also praising Bola Tinubu for appointments and infrastructural development in the region.
“We commend Mr President very highly for all the appointments and infrastructural revolution in the southeast, just as is being done in other parts of the country,” he said.
Umahi further stated that the forum would work in synergy with serving governors, including through planned courtesy visits, to strengthen collaboration and promote development in the region.
He reiterated that the initiative is not intended to rival existing leadership structures but to provide support, adding that more former governors are expected to join in the coming weeks.
