Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Vice President of Nigeria, has raised concerns over calls from the Bola Tinubu-led administration urging Northerners to hold off on contesting the presidency until 2031. Atiku described this as inequitable, pointing out a significant disparity in the years of leadership shared between the North and South.
Leadership Disparity
In a statement issued by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku highlighted the imbalance:
“By the year 2027, the South will have enjoyed 17 years of leadership—eight years under Obasanjo, five years under Jonathan, and four years under Tinubu—while the North will have experienced only 11 years, with Yar’Adua serving three and Buhari eight.”
Atiku’s remarks come as a response to Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who recently called on Northerners to support Tinubu for a second term. Speaking on TVC, Akume stated, “President Tinubu, as a Southerner, should be allowed to have a second term, meaning that those eyeing the presidency from the North in 2027 should look beyond that year by waiting till 2031.”
Atiku’s Push for Equity
Atiku questioned the fairness of this proposed arrangement, emphasizing the need for a balanced power-sharing structure between the North and South. He stated:
“Where, then, does true equity and fairness reside? This results in a disparity of six years between the North and South, casting a shadow over the balance of power.”
While calling for fairness, Atiku reminded Nigerians that ultimate power lies with the electorate:
“The power to elect and vote out their government lies firmly with the Nigerian people, entrusted to them upon the government’s ability to prove itself worthy of the people’s ballot.”
A Challenge to the Tinubu Administration
Critically, Atiku questioned the Tinubu administration’s performance as a basis for seeking re-election. He concluded with a scathing remark:
“But has the Tinubu government demonstrated that it deserves to be re-elected? The answer, alas, is as clear as the heavens themselves — God forbid.”
Implications for 2027
Atiku’s comments underline the ongoing debate over power rotation in Nigeria, a critical factor in the country’s political landscape. As the 2027 election approaches, discussions about equity, fairness, and leadership performance are likely to intensify.
