Political leaders in Northern Nigeria are reportedly grappling with a significant dilemma regarding which candidate to support in the upcoming presidential election. Sources informed Sunday Tribune that growing economic hardship and increasing discontent, particularly among the youth, are contributing to unrest in the region.
Many Northern leaders express dissatisfaction with the current state of the nation, feeling that President Bola Tinubu's administration has not delivered the promised benefits despite their support in the last election. This sentiment is compounded by concerns related to the #EndBadGovernance protests, which saw substantial youth-led demonstrations in the North, raising fears of similar unrest in the future.
Although the 2027 general election is still a few years away, Northern elders are actively scouting for credible candidates who could potentially challenge the current leadership. An anonymous source revealed, “Some prominent politicians across the North-West have been meeting and discussing who might be capable of giving President Tinubu a formidable contest in the presidential race.”
Aides to Northern governors have confirmed these discussions, noting that the 2027 election is a major concern for many influential Northern politicians, including their principals. These leaders are weighing the risks of opposing President Tinubu after supporting his 2023 victory.
Selecting a candidate who would gain broad acceptance in the North while countering possible opposition tactics, such as emphasizing zoning and Southern interests, presents another challenge. “They believe the best approach is to back a prominent Southern politician,” one source explained, adding that leaders are concerned about finding a Southern candidate capable of matching Tinubu's personality and financial strength.
While no formal decisions have been made, a shortlist of potential candidates is reportedly emerging, including potential running mates. Notable figures such as Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State, and Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal are among those being considered.