The presidential election scheduled for February 20, 2027, is still 910 days away, according to the timetable from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, the political scene is already buzzing as if the election were happening next year.
According to The Vanguard, it was reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who took office just 15 months ago after succeeding former President Muhammadu Buhari, is only partway through his first 48-month term. Despite this, political leaders, especially from the Northern region, are deeply engaged in consultations and behind-the-scenes discussions.
Opposition party leaders have already announced their intention to form a strong coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). They criticize President Bola Tinubu’s administration, claiming that his alleged poor performance since taking office on May 29, 2023, has caused severe hardship for Nigerians.
Earlier this week, there were reports of a potential joint ticket between Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, and All Progressives Congress’ National Chairman, Alhaji Umaru Ganduje. However, Ganduje quickly denied this, saying it was an attempt by some to create a rift between him and President Tinubu.
Northern power brokers aiming to stop Tinubu are reportedly seeking a southern candidate who would serve one term and then hand over power to the North, in line with the North-South power rotation principle. After Tinubu’s four years in 2027, the South would need another four years to balance the North’s eight years under Buhari.
This is one reason why some are supporting former President Jonathan, with a northern group suggesting a possible 2027 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket pairing Jonathan with Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State.
However, more information that was given by The Vanguard, made it known that a Northern political group, Let Nigeria Breathe Again, mid-week endorsed a potential presidential ticket of Dr. Jonathan and Fintiri for the 2027 election.
It was reported that the group’s leader, Mustapha Aliyu Lere, believes this pairing offers the best chance for unity, peace, and progress in Nigeria.
Lere praised Jonathan’s leadership and integrity, noting that he has committed no sins against anyone since leaving office in 2015.
He also commended Fintiri’s transformation of Adamawa State during his five-year tenure as governor.
He appealed to the PDP to unite and support Jonathan’s potential candidacy, citing the need for experienced leadership to address Nigeria’s challenges.
