2027: Arewa Youth Urge Tinubu to Pick Northern Christian Running Mate for Re-election Bid; Give Reasons
As preparations for the 2027 presidential election begin to take shape, the Arewa Youth Movement has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider a Northern Christian as his running mate if he intends to seek a second term in office.
During a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the group highlighted the importance of correcting perceived religious and regional disparities from the 2023 elections. The movement’s president, Ambassador Muhammed Sa’ad Aboki, stressed that such a choice would signal greater inclusivity and unity across Nigeria’s diverse political and religious landscape.
According to Aboki, the selection of a Northern Christian would be a strategic move that could significantly enhance Tinubu’s appeal among key voting blocs, particularly in the Middle Belt and other areas with large Christian populations in the North.
“President Tinubu remains a strong contender for 2027, given his influence within the APC and his ability to build political alliances,” Aboki noted. “However, to expand his reach and address concerns raised in the last election, choosing a Christian running mate from the North would be a meaningful step. It would reflect a commitment to national cohesion and demonstrate sensitivity to the country’s religious diversity.”
The Arewa Youth Movement pointed to Tinubu’s losses in the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, and Plateau states during the 2023 polls—regions with significant Northern Christian electorates—as evidence that more inclusive representation could be crucial to future electoral success.
They concluded that selecting a Northern Christian vice-presidential candidate would not only correct the perceived imbalance of the previous ticket but also boost the chances of building a wider, more united voter base in 2027.
