Alhaji Atiku Abubakar or any other Northern politician nurturing presidential ambitions for 2027 should quietly shelve such ideas. Southerners have now fully awakened from their long political slumber that once gave Northerners an edge, and the era of Northern political dominance is over.
I once thought Atiku Abubakar was a smart politician, but his persistent desperation to become president has exposed his diminishing political judgment. A truly seasoned politician knows when to exit the stage when the ovation is loudest. However, Atiku continues to chase the presidency at all costs, driven by the familiar Northern mentality that leadership is a birthright — a belief that is no longer acceptable in Nigeria's evolving political landscape.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shattered the remnants of Northern political dominance during the 2023 general elections. His bold declaration of "Emilokan" ("it is my turn") against immense opposition — from then-President Muhammadu Buhari, the APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, and others — signaled a significant shift. Tinubu’s victory demystified the notion of Northern entitlement to the nation's top office. His triumph delivered a blow from which the North is yet to recover.
A Critical Reflection on Tinubu's Governance
Although Tinubu's political mastery is undeniable, governance under his watch tells a different story. His early days in office, especially the abrupt removal of the fuel subsidy on Inauguration Day, dealt a heavy blow to Nigerians, worsening the economic hardship. Expectations were high after his electoral victory, but his administration’s policy decisions shocked many, leading to widespread disillusionment. The subsidy removal, executed without sufficient cushioning measures, left Nigerians grappling with severe economic realities and a bitter experience that will not be forgotten easily.
The 2027 Presidential Race: What the North Should Do
Given the current political climate, the North should reconsider any intentions of producing a presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. Instead, they should rally behind a formidable Southern candidate capable of challenging Tinubu effectively.
Two names stand out prominently: Mr. Peter Obi and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan.
Peter Obi, despite lacking the traditional political structures — no governors, no significant federal legislators behind him — still managed to win eleven states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during the 2023 elections. His popularity among the masses and reputation for accountability make him a strong contender.
Goodluck Jonathan, meanwhile, remains respected for his democratic principles and his statesmanlike tenure as president. His international recognition and domestic goodwill could make him a formidable opponent if he decides to contest.
As suggested by political analysts like Chief Sowunmi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would do well to woo Peter Obi as their flag bearer for 2027. His candidacy could revitalize the party and energize voters across Nigeria.
Final Word
If the North insists on fielding one of their own instead of supporting a strong Southern candidate like Obi or Jonathan, they risk another crushing defeat. In that case, even those critical of Tinubu may find themselves supporting him by default, as the saying goes, "when the desirable is unavailable, the available becomes desirable."
The South has learned its lesson — South Mumu Don Do!
