N orthern political leaders are increasingly divided over the potential re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu in 2027, revealing deep-seated rifts within the region.
Investigations have shown that while some factions within the North are mobilizing to unseat Tinubu, others, particularly northern minority groups, remain supportive of his administration. While critics argue that the President has not prioritized the region’s needs, his supporters contend that his leadership has benefited marginalized northern communities.
Communities in the Middle Belt, Southern Kaduna, Hausa Christians in Northern Nigeria, and various Plateau State residents have distanced themselves from efforts to oust Tinubu, insisting that his administration has provided them with more opportunities than previous governments.
However, some core northern groups, represented by political and socio-cultural organizations, insist that Tinubu has failed to meet the region’s expectations. The growing division is evident in public disagreements between former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and human rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, both of whom hold opposing views on Tinubu’s governance, particularly regarding security challenges in the North.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a major northern political and cultural group, has maintained its neutral stance. Secretary General of the ACF, Murtala Aliyu, clarified that the group does not endorse or oppose any candidate but rather highlights critical issues for voters to consider. This response followed remarks by the National Chairman of the ruling party, Abdullahi Ganduje, who urged northern politicians with presidential aspirations to step aside, arguing that Tinubu deserves a second term.
Meanwhile, the League of Northern Democrats, comprising members from multiple political parties, has expressed its intention to support an alternative candidate. According to its spokesperson, Ladan Salihu, Tinubu’s administration has failed to meet expectations, bringing economic hardship and discontent among northern voters. He further hinted at the possibility of a new political movement to challenge Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The National Coalition of Northern Groups echoed this sentiment, warning that Tinubu’s chances in 2027 depend on his ability to address economic concerns. The coalition’s president, Jamilu Charanchi, emphasized that the North, which holds a significant portion of the country’s electorate, would not support the President if economic conditions remained dire.
Similarly, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has aligned with El-Rufai in opposing Tinubu’s re-election. Lawal criticized the President’s economic policies, asserting that they have exacerbated poverty and hardship in the North.
El-Rufai, in a recent social media post, also expressed concerns about the ruling party’s internal democracy, lamenting the lack of structured decision-making within the party. He warned that Tinubu risks facing the same political fate as former President Goodluck Jonathan, who lost his re-election bid amid growing dissatisfaction from northern voters.
On the other hand, several northern minority groups continue to support Tinubu. The Middle Belt Forum has reiterated its backing for a southern presidency in 2027, arguing that the region has received better political appointments and infrastructural development under Tinubu compared to previous administrations. Notable figures from the Middle Belt in Tinubu’s government include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.
Hausa Christian groups in Northern Nigeria have also rejected the movement to unseat Tinubu, stressing that his administration has shown a commitment to inclusivity and security reforms. National Chairman of the group, Daniel Musa, urged Tinubu to appoint more individuals from their community to key positions rather than focusing on political rivalries.
Similarly, several indigenes of Plateau State, under the Plateau Initiative for the Development and Advancement of the Natives, have expressed their support for Tinubu, citing his government’s commitment to national development. The Southern Kaduna People’s Union has also commended the President for appointing key figures from their region to strategic positions, such as the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and the establishment of a Federal University in Kachia.
As political dynamics shift ahead of the 2027 elections, it remains uncertain whether Tinubu will consolidate support in the North or face a significant challenge from within the region.
Agboola Aluko, reporting for GLiDE NEWS.
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