Northern political leaders are reportedly grappling with a challenging decision as they evaluate potential candidates for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Sources indicate that economic difficulties, rising youth discontent, and unmet expectations from President Bola Tinubu’s administration are contributing to this dilemma.
While they backed Tinubu in the 2023 election, many Northern leaders believe the region has not benefited sufficiently from this alliance, particularly as economic struggles disproportionately affect them.
The Northern leadership’s apprehensions are heightened by memories of large-scale youth protests, such as the #EndBadGovernance movement, which saw significant participation from the North.
Leaders are concerned that ongoing dissatisfaction could lead to further unrest, prompting them to actively seek candidates who can competently contest the presidency.
Sources close to Northern politicians report that influential figures across the North-West are in talks to identify a strong candidate capable of challenging President Tinubu.
Although no final decisions have been reached, insiders suggest that Northern leaders are also considering several Southern politicians who could potentially oppose Tinubu.
In navigating this decision while considering regional interests, the leaders are vetting potential Northern running mates, including former Kano State Governor Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and ex-Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, among others.
However, the Northern bloc remains cautious of potential opposition strategies focused on zoning and regional loyalties, especially since any Southern-backed candidate would need to compete with Tinubu’s established influence and resources.
This discussion highlights increasing fears that continued support for Tinubu in 2027 could alienate the Northern youth, who are becoming more vocal about issues such as unemployment, inflation, and insecurity.
Many Northern leaders are reportedly reluctant to endorse Tinubu again, concerned that an unchanged administration could damage their standing with younger voters.
“A credible candidate from the North-West is likely to be selected as the running mate. For now, Northern politicians are still searching for a reputable candidate for 2027. However, many are unlikely to support the current administration again,” a source told the Nigerian Tribune.
