He made the remark while receiving leaders of the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, at the Government House in Owerri.

The meeting, held ahead of the party’s primaries, focused on strengthening unity within the APC in the South East and mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Uzodinma said the 2023 election outcome in the region was a “political accident” that would not happen again, insisting that the APC was working to reposition itself.

He urged party members to close ranks and prioritise unity, stressing that internal disagreements should not weaken the party’s collective goal.

According to him, the South East must align more closely with the ruling party at the centre to remain relevant in national politics.

He added that deeper involvement in the APC would help the region secure greater benefits from the federal government.

Uzodinma also expressed confidence that President Tinubu would record strong support in the South East during the 2027 elections, pledging that the region would play a key role in his re-election victory.

He further assured that efforts were underway to maintain peace and stability in the region while cautioning party members against allowing internal party contests to create division ahead of the primaries.

News reports that his planned departure follows a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday, where he reportedly conveyed his intention to join the governorship race. Although he did not speak to journalists after the meeting, government sources confirmed that he had officially informed the President of his ambition.

There are indications that his resignation may be announced either today or before the end of the week.

His move comes weeks after an earlier directive requiring political appointees to resign if they intended to contest elective offices. Despite missing that deadline, his recent engagement with the President is believed to have cleared the way for his political transition.

After leaving the Villa, Adelabu was also reported to have met with prominent figures in the ruling party, including former Osun State Governor Adebisi Akande and former NNPC board chairman Pius Akinyelure.

Adelabu has long harboured governorship ambitions in Oyo State. He previously contested the 2019 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and later ran again in 2023 on the platform of the Accord Party.

With the APC scheduling its governorship primary for May 23, 2026, and pegging the nomination fee at ₦50 million, preparations for the contest are already underway. The sale of nomination forms is expected to run from April 25 to May 2.

If he formally declares after resigning, Adelabu will join other APC aspirants, including Senator Sarafadeen Alli and Oyedele Alao, popularly known as Allow Alao.

His expected entry is set to intensify competition within the party as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.

Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Hayatu-Deen said Nigerians are facing rising living costs and worsening insecurity, stressing the need for urgent and effective leadership intervention.

He noted that food and fuel prices continue to increase, making daily survival increasingly difficult for many citizens.

According to him, the situation does not reflect the Nigeria citizens deserve, adding that it is time for a change in direction.

He criticised what he described as a growing disconnect between the government and the people, arguing that current policies have placed heavy pressure on households and businesses.

Hayatu-Deen said insecurity has also intensified, while public resources are not being properly managed to protect vulnerable citizens.

He pledged to present a credible alternative focused on stabilising the economy, improving security, and restoring public trust in governance.

He emphasised the need for experienced and steady leadership capable of rebuilding systems, creating jobs, and protecting lives and livelihoods.

Drawing from over four decades of experience in banking and economic management, he highlighted his involvement in financial reforms, investment mobilisation, and institutional restructuring.

He also urged members of the ADC to remain united as the party prepares for the 2027 elections, stressing that unity would be key to becoming a strong opposition force.

Hayatu-Deen, who previously served as Managing Director and Chairman of FSB International Bank and chaired the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, has also contributed to national economic policy discussions and advisory platforms.

He was awarded the national honour of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2000 for his service to Nigeria.

With his declaration, he joins other prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Peter Obi, who have also indicated interest in the 2027 presidential race.