Northern Elders Express Regret Over Voting for Tinubu, Vow Caution in 2027 Presidential Election

In a candid expression of political recalibration, the Northern Elders Forum has voiced significant regret over its support for President Bola Tinubu in the last general elections. This statement comes amidst escalating concerns over national security and governance issues under the current administration. Speaking to The Guardian, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the spokesperson for the forum, articulated a reflective stance on the electoral decision that saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate ascend to Nigeria’s presidency with substantial support from the northern regions.

The forum’s introspection was sparked by recent security lapses, notably the abduction of schoolchildren in Kuriga, Kaduna, which underscored a perceived failure in the government’s duty to safeguard its citizens. This incident, among others, prompted a reevaluation of political endorsements and electoral strategies by the northern leadership collective.

In the 2023 general elections, President Tinubu secured the presidency with over 8.7 million votes, benefiting from a notable margin contributed by the North West, North East, and North Central regions, which collectively delivered approximately 5.4 million votes. The forum’s reflection on these numbers underscores a broader contemplation on the political dynamics that influence national leadership selection and regional allegiances.

In response to inquiries about recent philanthropic gestures from former Anambra Governor Peter Obi towards northern communities, Suleiman’s comments revealed an emerging consensus within the forum. The North, he suggests, is poised to adopt a more measured and consensus-driven approach in its political endorsements. Emphasizing the lessons learned from the 2023 elections, Suleiman highlighted the region’s intent to back candidates who promise greater inclusivity, less divisiveness, and a stronger alignment with the interests of all Nigerian regions.

As the country looks towards the 2027 elections, the Northern Elders Forum’s stance signals a potentially significant shift in political alliances and voter sentiment. This development speaks to a broader national discourse on leadership, governance, and the collective quest for a more unified and secure Nigeria.