In Nigeria’s northern region, there is a big debate about whether President Bola Tinubu should be re-elected in 2027. Some people believe he has done a good job and should continue, while others think he has not helped them enough and should be replaced.
Why Some Northerners Want a New Leader
Many people from the “core North”—which includes states like Kano, Sokoto, and Borno—feel that Tinubu has not treated their region fairly. They argue that:
- His government has not done enough to reduce poverty and hardship.
- Security problems, like kidnappings and attacks by armed groups, have not improved.
- Some of the policies he introduced have made life more difficult for them.
Because of these issues, several northern leaders and groups, such as the Arewa Consultative Forum and the National Coalition of Northern Groups, have said they do not support Tinubu’s re-election. Some political figures, like former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, have also spoken against Tinubu and are working to find another northern candidate to run against him.
Lawal even warned that if Tinubu wins again, “Northern Nigeria will turn into a large refugee camp” because of economic hardship.
Why Some Northerners Still Support Tinubu
Not all northern groups agree with this view. Some people, especially from the Middle Belt, Southern Kaduna, and parts of Plateau State, believe Tinubu has done well and deserves another term.
Their reasons include:
- He has appointed more people from their communities to key government positions. For example, George Akume from Benue State is now the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
- He has started new projects and developments in their areas, unlike past governments.
- Some believe he has made efforts to improve security in their states.
Groups like the Middle Belt Forum and the Southern Kaduna People’s Union have said they prefer a leader from southern Nigeria in 2027, meaning they are likely to support Tinubu again.
A Political Battle is Brewing
With the next election still years away, the northern region is already deeply divided. While some leaders are planning to remove Tinubu, others want to give him more time to fulfill his promises. The big question is: Will Tinubu win the North’s support again, or will a new leader emerge?
As 2027 approaches, Nigerians will have to decide whether Tinubu has done enough to deserve a second term or if it’s time for a change.
