Awuzie made the call while speaking with journalists in Owerri, where he criticised what he described as attempts by Soludo and Umahi to discredit Obi’s record.
The development comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Obi is the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, while Umahi and Soludo have backed President Bola Tinubu.
Awuzie urged the South-East elders, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and its Imeobi, to address the exchanges involving the three politicians and encourage Soludo and Umahi to concentrate on their official responsibilities.
He said Igbo leaders should provide leadership by speaking out when politicians from the region engage in public disagreements.
He said, “The patriotic Igbo man is known for speaking out. So, what are our Elders-in-Council in the South-East doing? What about those in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and those in Imeobi of Ohanaeze?
“Why can’t they call Governor Soludo and Engr. Umahi to order? They should tell the duo to leave Obi alone.”
The former ASUU president maintained that efforts to undermine Obi’s record as a former governor of Anambra State would not affect his standing, while describing him as a politician he believes has qualities needed in Nigeria at the present time.
Awuzie also rejected suggestions that statements by Tinubu and his supporters could damage Obi’s reputation, arguing that the former Anambra governor had maintained a strong public profile beyond the South-East.
He cited the reception Obi receives during visits to different parts of the country as evidence of his claim that the former governor enjoys support outside the region.
His intervention followed recent comments by Umahi on Obi and the political direction of the South-East ahead of the 2027 election. Umahi has urged South-East leaders to highlight the Tinubu administration’s projects and appointments in the region and said Obi would receive fewer votes if people were better informed about the President’s record.
The NDC has already begun preparations for its 2027 campaign, with the party saying Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, will play key roles in selecting principal officers of the Presidential Campaign Council.
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