2027: Tinubu Takes Steps to Rebuild Northern Support Amidst Regional Dissatisfaction
President Bola Tinubu is actively working to restore support from northern leaders and address grievances within his administration. According to close aides, several initiatives are underway to counteract the dissatisfaction voiced by some northern politicians, who have expressed concerns about perceived biased policies and marginalization.
Critics from the North have accused the Tinubu administration of nepotism and have been disappointed with recent cabinet appointments, claiming that Tinubu has favored Lagos residents over other regions. Prominent figures like former Senate Chief Whip Ali Ndume and ex-APC National Vice Chairman Salihu Lukman, who recently resigned from the APC, have voiced these concerns. Lukman, in particular, has criticized northern politicians in the administration for not adequately representing regional interests, pointing to Vice President Kashim Shettima’s perceived lack of effective leadership.
In April, Abdulaziz Suleiman, a spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum, expressed regret over supporting Tinubu, citing worsening security issues in the region as a lesson learned. Suleiman stated that the North would be more strategic in selecting future presidential candidates, emphasizing the need for unity, inclusivity, and a leader who serves the interests of all regions.
In response to these challenges, the Presidency is reportedly implementing a two-pronged approach: increasing northern representation in appointments and addressing issues of poverty and illiteracy in the region. Additionally, senior officials have voiced frustration over northern governors not acknowledging federal contributions, particularly regarding palliative measures.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been assigned to champion northern interests, while Vice President Shettima and APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje are working to engage with discontented stakeholders. Despite these efforts, some northern elites remain focused on ensuring that power stays within the North for the 2027 elections.
