The mood of the nation favours the presidency remaining in the South in 2027.
The race for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is heating up as opposition figures strategize to unseat President Bola Tinubu, even as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) consolidates behind his re-election bid.
The National Opposition Coalition, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has applied to register a new party—the All Democratic Alliance (ADA)—but remains divided over zoning and candidate selection.
Key Contenders:
- Goodluck Jonathan: The ex-president’s soaring popularity and one-term appeal make him a wildcard, though his wife’s recent dismissal of his candidacy dims prospects.
- Atiku Abubakar: The six-time aspirant faces resistance within the PDP, with critics arguing he should yield to southern candidates.
- Peter Obi: The Labour Party’s 2023 star retains youth appeal but may struggle to replicate his earlier momentum.
- Bukola Saraki: A potential compromise candidate, yet his North-central identity leaves him politically “orphaned.”
- Rabiu Kwankwaso: Strong in Kano but weakened by party crises.
- Chibuike Amaechi: A vocal Tinubu critic, but southern zoning complicates his bid.
- Nasir El-Rufai: A vengeful strategist, though his ministerial rejection and Kaduna record haunt him.
On Jonathan: “He is the only southerner constitutionally bound to run for just one term… but Patience Jonathan’s statement may have damaged that option.”
On Atiku: “Many PDP governors believe power must remain in the south—a decision counter to Atiku’s interest.”
On Obi: “His 2023 run depleted Atiku’s votes, handing Tinubu victory. Can he rally similar support in 2027?”
On El-Rufai: “Determined to take revenge after Senate blocked his ministerial confirmation.”
The Stakes:
The opposition’s internal rift—whether to zone the ticket south or north—mirrors national tensions after eight years of northern rule under Buhari. While Tinubu enjoys APC endorsements, economic hardships could fuel anti-incumbency.
“The north may back Jonathan for a single term,” sources suggest, but Atiku’s ambition and Obi’s grassroots appeal keep the field volatile.
With Tinubu’s camp confident and the opposition fragmented, 2027 promises a fierce battle—if challengers can unite.