The Igbo Agenda Dialogue (IAD) has endorsed Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as its preferred candidate for the 2027 Nigerian presidential election.
The group announced its endorsement at a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Chief Chekwas Okorie, and Executive Secretary, Jonathan Elendu, the IAD said it considered the records, leadership experience, integrity and commitment to public service of leading presidential candidates before making its decision.
The group said Obi is best suited to provide the leadership Nigeria needs.
It also expressed support for Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Obi’s running mate, describing him as a compassionate leader who understands the needs of the people.
The IAD said its decision followed wide consultations with Igbo organisations, market associations, women’s groups, youth groups and civil society organisations in Nigeria and abroad.
According to the group, Igbo people have a long history of working with other ethnic groups to promote national unity and support the formation of governments in Nigeria.
It cited the political alliances formed by Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe’s National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC) and other political parties in the First and Second Republics as examples of the Igbo people’s contribution to national politics.
The group also recalled how Igbo political leaders supported the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 1999 general election, following assurances that former Vice President Alex Ekwueme would receive support from northern political leaders in his presidential ambition.
However, it said Ekwueme was disappointed during the party’s presidential primary in Jos, Plateau State, despite the support given to the PDP in the South-East.
Explaining its decision to support Obi, the IAD said Nigerians now have an opportunity to elect a leader who can address the country’s challenges, adding that the presidential contest should not be limited by age or established political interests.
The group called on eligible Igbo voters to participate actively in the 2027 election and work with other Nigerians to secure victory for Obi.
It also urged Igbo politicians supporting other presidential candidates to focus their campaigns on issues rather than engage in divisive politics.
The IAD stressed that the Igbo people had historically supported political leaders from other ethnic groups and urged Nigerians to promote peace, unity and cooperation ahead of the election.
The group concluded by announcing plans to expand its campaign through its networks across Nigeria and the diaspora to mobilise support for Obi’s presidential ambition.
