By Mike Odeh, Abuja.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, discussions among northern stakeholders, including elements from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), are intensifying. Plans are underway for a crucial meeting in London aimed at strategizing to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Tinubu’s Silence on Second Term Raises Questions
With approximately 27 months remaining until the next presidential election, President Tinubu has remained silent about his intentions for a second term. However, his supporters are actively campaigning for his re-election, as evidenced by a recent billboard in Abuja proclaiming “Grassroot Support for Tinubu 2027.”
Calls for Patience from Northern Leaders
In a recent statement, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and a prominent northern leader, urged the North to postpone presidential ambitions until 2031, suggesting that Tinubu, as a southern candidate, should be allowed a second term. He emphasized that any aspirations for the presidency from the North should extend beyond 2027.
Arewa Consultative Forum’s Stance
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) echoed Akume’s sentiments, stating that the focus should remain on governance rather than the upcoming election. ACF’s Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, argued that discussions around 2027 are premature and detract from pressing issues facing the nation.
Growing Opposition Against Tinubu
Despite claims of premature discussions, sources indicate that plans to challenge Tinubu are already in motion. Key players from northern political circles are reportedly collaborating with disenchanted APC members and opposition parties to formulate strategies for the upcoming election. The discussions have drawn parallels to the 2015 campaign against former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Concerns Over Tinubu’s Administration
Critics within the North have expressed dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s administration, citing perceived biases in appointments and policies that they deem anti-Islamic. A prominent northern politician revealed that many believe Tinubu’s administration has favored one ethnic group, leading to distrust regarding his proposed Tax Reform Bills.
Atiku’s Ambition Complicates Opposition Dynamics
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar remains a prominent figure in the opposition, but his continued ambition has raised concerns among potential allies. Some fear that any efforts made to unseat Tinubu may ultimately benefit Atiku, who they believe may not be able to effectively compete against Tinubu in 2027.
The Debate Over Regional Equity
Atiku’s camp argues that allowing the South to retain the presidency in 2027 would unfairly disadvantage the North, which would have had significantly less time in power since the return to democracy in 1999. Atiku’s spokesperson highlighted this disparity, framing the upcoming election as a matter of equity and fairness.
PDP’s Confidence in 2027 Election
The PDP has expressed optimism about defeating the APC in the next election, drawing parallels to the recent success of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana. The party’s Publicity Secretary stated that the opposition’s victory in Ghana serves as a reminder of the power of the people to effect change, suggesting a similar outcome is possible in Nigeria.
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will remain on the strategies and alliances forming ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the potential for significant shifts in power dynamics.
