By Suleiman Ibrahim.
Ibrahim Shekarau, former governor of Kano State, is at the forefront of efforts to build an alliance between northern elites and prominent southern political figures in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.
Sources disclosed to Punch that former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Head of State Yakubu Gowon are among the notable figures supporting this initiative.
Shekarau, a prominent member of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), has been actively engaging political leaders from the South-West, South-East, and South-South regions to discuss the formation of a broad-based coalition. The LND’s convener, Umar Ardo, recently announced plans for the group to evolve into a national political platform.
During a press briefing on January 5, Ardo expressed the group’s commitment to transforming into the League of National Democrats, emphasizing a shift towards inclusivity. “This new political platform seeks to provide a credible alternative by institutionalizing meritocracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring the emergence of leaders with proven competence and integrity,” he stated.
Insiders revealed that both Obasanjo and Gowon have advised the LND leadership to broaden the platform’s appeal by incorporating southern politicians and ensuring inclusiveness.
In October 2024, Obasanjo hosted a 20-member delegation from the LND, led by Shekarau, at his residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta. During the meeting, he proposed renaming the group to the National League of Democrats to better reflect its expansive vision. “It is high time we began working for the national interest. Yes, you have identified your group as the League of Northern Democrats, but I wish you would consider calling it the National League of Democrats, because where you come from should not be a barrier,” he remarked.
Umar Sani, a former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo and a founding member of the LND, confirmed that Shekarau is leading discussions with influential southern politicians. “We’re in talks with some southern politicians, though I cannot disclose their names. Shekarau and others are spearheading these discussions,” he noted.
Sani added, “When we met with Baba Obasanjo, he emphasized that the initiative should be national. General Gowon echoed this sentiment, and other prominent Nigerians provided similar counsel. During our engagements with southern politicians, many suggested that this movement should evolve into a political party.”
He clarified that the LND has not yet registered as a political party, as consultations are still ongoing.
Ladan Salihu, the group’s spokesperson, stated that discussions are continuing with southern leaders, including former governors, senators, and ministers. He noted that the LND had already been approached by key political clusters from the South-East before reaching out to southern politicians.
“We’ve been contacted by notable politicians from the South, particularly from the South-East, who have expressed interest in forming the League of Southern Democrats. Similarly, respected politicians from the South-West have shown interest in joining the LND if it becomes a national platform, or they may even establish the League of Western Democrats,” Salihu explained.
He refrained from naming specific southern politicians involved in discussions but confirmed that the group maintains regular communication with “respected southern leaders.” “We are in constant, almost daily contact with them because they share our vision of rescuing Nigeria. This is not just a rhetorical platform; it’s a serious movement based on real action,” he asserted.
The LND’s initiative comes amid a flurry of political maneuvering by various leaders aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections.
