, recently stated that currently, no candidate appears more capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming presidential race.){kind=link}
As the 2027 general election approaches, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, a founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), recently stated that currently, no candidate appears more capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming presidential race.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Yakasai noted that he was unaware of any formal decision by northern groups backing a presidential candidate from the region for 2027.
He explained, “I have not heard of any official position from the Arewa Consultative Forum on the 2027 presidential election. What is often presented as the position of groups like the Arewa Consultative Forum or Northern Elders Forum are merely individual opinions since no consensus has been reached.”
Yakasai urged Nigerians to wait until northern leaders convene and officially declare their stance.
He emphasized President Tinubu’s current influence, stating, “Tinubu is presently the president, supported by his ministers and governors. Who else matches his strength and stamina to challenge him effectively?”
Highlighting the political landscape, Yakasai pointed out that beyond the ruling APC, some opposition governors also back Tinubu.
He concluded, “For now, the odds favor Tinubu. I haven’t seen anything that could prevent him from winning. The north alone cannot determine who becomes president.”
Obidients Respect Yakasai but Disagree on Tinubu’s Chances
In contrast, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, acknowledged Yakasai’s wisdom but respectfully disagreed with his optimism about Tinubu’s reelection bid. The movement argued that younger, visionary Nigerians are better suited to lead the country forward.
Dr. Tanko said, “While we respect our elders and their insights, we believe there are capable younger leaders ready to rebuild Nigeria far more effectively than President Tinubu. The severe poverty, hunger, and rising youth unemployment, especially in the north, show the administration’s shortcomings.”
He added that Tinubu’s policies have contributed to factory closures and business failures, worsening the economic crisis. “Nepotism has reached unprecedented levels, and the economy is in ruins. We urge Yakasai to reconsider his position and support new leadership that can restore Nigeria’s standing internationally.”
PDP Predicts a Historic Defeat for Tinubu in 2027
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also expressed strong opposition to Tinubu’s prospects, predicting a significant loss in the next election. Timothy Osadolor, the party’s Deputy National Youth Leader, described Yakasai’s view as outdated and criticized the current government for lacking vision and competence.
Osadolor stated, “The reality on the ground suggests that Tinubu will serve only one term, and his defeat will be decisive. This movement represents the future of Nigeria and its youth, which cannot be compromised by an administration failing to deliver.”
While acknowledging Yakasai’s respected status, Osadolor said, “Even the wisest can sometimes hold views that don’t reflect current realities. If Yakasai made that statement, it likely stems from outdated perspectives.”