A new wave of political agitation has emerged in Imo State following the sudden appearance of posters promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged re-election bid for 2027. Plastered across strategic locations in Owerri and other towns, the posters carry Tinubu’s image and the slogan: "Your voice must be heard. Join the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement Today."
The development has provoked backlash from civil society and political groups, with many accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) of violating electoral rules and displaying political insensitivity.
Leading the condemnation was the advocacy group, Concerned Imo Political Watch, whose convener, Nze Paul Nduka, described the posters as “insulting and insensitive,” especially in a region that has felt sidelined under Tinubu’s administration.
Nduka criticized the move as premature, arguing that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to release the 2027 electoral timetable, making any form of campaign illegal. “Even if these are mere endorsements, they’re politically tone-deaf and legally questionable,” he said.
He further expressed disbelief over the choice of Imo as a launchpad for the re-election message. “This is a state where the federal government has shown little interest—no major infrastructure projects, no representation in recent federal appointments like the National Population Commission. Yet it is here they choose to push this message?”
According to Nduka, the campaign disregards the pains of Nigerians, particularly those in the South East, who have grappled with increased insecurity, economic hardship, and neglect since Tinubu took office. He accused the administration of worsening the state’s energy crisis and contributing to the collapse of small businesses.
“It is unacceptable to ask people who are suffering under your leadership to endorse your continuation in office,” he said. “We see rising kidnappings, hunger, and hopelessness. Displaying these posters is not just provocative—it’s a slap in the face.”
However, some voices within the APC have dismissed the criticisms. Igwe Pius Igwe, a party chieftain in Imo, said the posters were misinterpreted. “These are not official campaign materials. They are goodwill messages by supporters. Linking them to a 2027 agenda is pure political mischief,” he stated.
Igwe added that the president remains committed to constitutional order and would not sanction any breach of electoral laws. He accused opposition figures of attempting to stoke controversy for political gain.
Despite this defense, many in Imo remain skeptical. The South East’s relationship with the APC-led federal government has been strained, especially after the controversial outcome of the 2023 presidential election, where Peter Obi, widely seen as the region’s preferred candidate, allegedly lost due to electoral manipulation.
Obi continues to enjoy massive support in the region. His recent visit to Imo for the funeral of the late financier, Ndaa Paschal Gabriel Dozie, drew an overwhelming crowd that disrupted the event. Such scenes, observers say, underscore the deep emotional and political disconnect between the region and President Tinubu.
Elder Njoku Ikedimma, an elder statesman in the state, expressed dismay over the posters. “To come into our communities and plaster such messages without even the decency to engage our people—it’s disgraceful. They even did it under cover of darkness, clearly aware of the outrage it would provoke.”
As the political tension builds, the incident has reignited conversations about national unity, inclusion, and the accountability of elected officials. For many in Imo, the posters symbolize more than just early politicking—they reflect a leadership that feels distant and dismissive of their reality.
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