Obi Rejected? North Would Choose Jonathan In 2027 – PDP Insider Sparks Controversy

Amid ongoing debates over zoning and the potential return of presidential power to the North in 2027, Umar Sani, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has suggested that it would be more strategic for the North to support former President Goodluck Jonathan rather than Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.

Speaking during Daily Politics, a programme on Trust TV, on Saturday, Sani argued that Jonathan’s candidacy aligns better with the North’s long-term interests because the constitution limits him to just one more term.

Sani, who previously served as the media aide to former Vice President Namadi Sambo, explained that backing Jonathan would allow the South to complete its eight-year tenure, paving the way for the North to reclaim the presidency in 2031.

“I would prefer President Jonathan to take the ticket—not because I dislike Obi—but because Jonathan would only serve one term, fulfilling the South’s remaining four years,” he said.

He emphasized that Jonathan’s legal limitation offers more certainty than Obi’s verbal promise to serve just one term.

“Between someone who is legally bound to leave after four years and someone merely making a promise, which one is more reliable? Jonathan must step down after four years. Obi’s promise is not enforceable,” Sani added.

While acknowledging Obi’s reputation for integrity, Sani stressed the importance of legal assurance in politics.

“You can trust Obi, but in politics, certainty matters. With Jonathan, the North knows what to expect,” he said.

His remarks come amid speculation that the PDP is exploring the possibility of reuniting with Obi, who left the party before the 2023 elections, potentially to form a joint ticket.

However, Sani warned that if the North is to support another Southern candidate in 2027, it must be with a clear understanding that the presidency would rotate back to the North by 2031.

“It’s about fairness and balance. Buhari, a northerner, ruled for eight years. The South should be allowed to complete their eight years too. That’s what ensures national stability,” he concluded.

Peter Obi, who finished third in the 2023 election, has expressed interest in running again in 2027 and has pledged to serve only one term if elected.