Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has responded to a statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, urging Northern politicians to defer their presidential ambitions until 2031.

Akume, in a recent TV appearance, advised Northern leaders to allow President Bola Tinubu, a Southerner, to complete a second term if re-elected in 2027. He suggested that the North should focus on the presidency after Tinubu’s tenure.

Atiku’s Response

In a statement issued by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized the SGF’s remarks, emphasizing a lack of balance in leadership tenure between the North and South.

Atiku argued that by 2027, the South would have held the presidency for 17 years—including eight years under Olusegun Obasanjo, five under Goodluck Jonathan, and four under Bola Tinubu—while the North would have governed for only 11 years, with Umaru Yar’Adua’s three years and Muhammadu Buhari’s eight years.

He stated:

“Where, then, does true equity and fairness reside? This disparity of six years between the North and South casts a shadow over the balance of power.”

Atiku also questioned the performance of the Tinubu administration, suggesting that its track record may not justify a second term.

Akume’s Appeal

Akume, addressing the matter, stated:

“President Tinubu, as a Southerner, should be allowed to have a second term. Those eyeing the presidency from the North in 2027 should wait until 2031.”

He also remarked that if it were God’s will, Atiku or any other Northerner could still become president at any age.

Broader Implications

The debate underscores the ongoing struggle over the balance of power and equitable representation in Nigeria’s federal leadership, reflecting broader regional and political tensions as the 2027 election cycle looms.