2027: Kwankwaso, Tambuwal On VP List As Northern Politicians Search For Tinubu’s Replacement

Political leaders in the North are reportedly facing a challenging decision regarding which candidate to back in the next presidential election.

Sources disclosed to Nigerian Tribune that escalating economic hardship and growing dissatisfaction among the public, especially the youth, are stirring a sense of unrest.

Reports indicate that some Northern leaders are unhappy with the nation’s current state, which they feel has disproportionately affected the North. Despite supporting President Bola Tinubu in the last election, they express disappointment, feeling the North hasn’t gained the anticipated advantages.

Concerns also remain over the extensive protests during the #EndBadGovernance movement, where a surge in youth-led demonstrations within the region has heightened fears of a potential repeat.

Although the 2027 general election is still a few years away, Northern elders are reportedly taking a proactive stance in searching for credible candidates who could potentially challenge the present leadership.

“Some prominent politicians across the North-West have been meeting and discussing who might be capable of giving President Tinubu a formidable contest in the presidential race,” an anonymous source shared with Sunday Tribune.

Several aides to Northern governors have confirmed these discussions, noting that the 2027 election is a growing concern among high-profile Northern politicians, including their principals.

These politicians are reportedly weighing the implications of opposing President Tinubu after supporting his 2023 victory.

Another issue for Northern leaders is selecting a candidate who would gain broad acceptance in the North while considering possible opposition strategies, such as highlighting zoning and Southern interests.

“They [Northern leaders] believe the best approach is to back a prominent Southern politician,” a source explained, “yet they worry about finding someone from the South who could match President Tinubu in personality and financial strength.”

Though no official decisions have been reached, sources suggest a shortlist of candidates is forming, with potential running mates under consideration.

“A credible person from the North-West is likely to be chosen as the running mate,” one source noted, mentioning that Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Kano State governor, and Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal are among the names being discussed.

“At this point, Northern politicians are still in search of a reputable candidate for 2027. Many, however, are unlikely to support the current administration again,” the source concluded.