North Should Allow Tinubu Complete Second Term Says Babangida Aliyu

Former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, has advised political figures in the North not to oppose President Bola Tinubu’s second term ambition in 2027.

He warned that any attempt to disrupt the current power arrangement could hurt national unity and create tension for the region.

Aliyu made the statement during an interview on national television, where he expressed concern over the actions of some northern politicians, especially within the African Democratic Congress. He said their plans to push for a northern presidency in 2027 go against the informal agreement of rotational leadership between North and South.

He reminded the public that the North already held the presidency for eight years under Muhammadu Buhari, and fairness demands that the South be allowed to complete its turn. Aliyu stressed that the same political understanding that kept the North in power peacefully under Buhari should now be extended to Tinubu.

During the interview, he also pointed out that some aspirants from the North are campaigning on a single-term promise, which he believes could create confusion and put unnecessary pressure on northern interests. He questioned the benefit of such a move for the region and described it as short-sighted.

Aliyu also gave insight into potential shifts in Nigeria’s political structure, predicting deeper realignments after the 2027 elections. He noted that while recent defections have mostly occurred among governors and lawmakers, future changes could affect the presidential level as well.

He added that the next 18 months will shape the outcome of the 2027 elections. According to him, the performance of the current administration will determine the mood of the electorate and their willingness to return Tinubu to office. He believes that if the government addresses some current concerns, its chances of returning will be strong.

Turning to the opposition, Aliyu challenged parties seeking to unseat the All Progressives Congress to offer Nigerians clear and credible alternatives. He said voters need to see real solutions, not just promises to remove current leaders, and urged opposition groups to prove they can govern better.

His comments come amid ongoing debate over zoning, regional equity, and what direction the 2027 race may take.