Tinubu 2027: Northern Leaders Clash Over Ganduje, Matawalle’s Endorsement

Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, have both pledged the North’s support for Tinubu’s re-election, emphasizing that he should complete two terms before power shifts back to the region in 2031.

However, their statements have triggered mixed reactions among Northern politicians and stakeholders. Some have voiced support for the principle of power rotation, while others advocate for a more open and competitive electoral process.

Ganduje: North Must Wait Until 2031
During an event with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre (PBAT Media Centre) and the Tinubu Northern Youth Forum (TNYF) at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, Ganduje argued that expectations for a Northern president in 2027 should be dismissed. He stressed that Tinubu’s performance, rather than zoning, should determine the 2027 election.

Sani: Democracy Is Meaningless Without Opposition
Anthony Sani, former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), defended Ganduje’s position, asserting that Tinubu’s rise to power was supported by Northern APC governors who backed the rotation principle. He emphasized that while Northerners are free to contest, the final decision lies with the voters.

Kwankwaso: Tinubu Has Delivered for the North
APC leader Musa Iliyasu Kwankwaso echoed Ganduje’s sentiments, stating that Tinubu’s initiatives in the North justify his bid for a second term. He pointed to significant projects like the North-West Commission and the allocation of over N600 billion for regional development as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to the North.

Dungurawa: Ganduje’s Remarks Could Backfire
In an interview with Vanguard, Hashimu Dungurawa, Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Kano, argued that Ganduje’s remarks could backfire, possibly turning Northern voters against Tinubu in 2027. He accused Ganduje of being insincere and criticized Tinubu’s policies, such as the fuel subsidy removal, increased taxes, and worsening insecurity, which Dungurawa claimed have negatively impacted the North.

Prof. Fagge: Ganduje’s Statement Is Undemocratic
Political analyst Professor Kamilu Sani Fagge argued that no party chairman has the right to dictate who can or cannot contest an election, labeling Ganduje’s remarks as undemocratic.