The political strength of President Bola Tinubu in Northern Nigeria could face a major test ahead of the 2027 presidential election amid claims of growing dissatisfaction with his administration in the region.
Arise Television presenter, Rufai Oseni, raised concerns over the mood in the North, arguing that Nigerians should not assume the region remains firmly behind the President ahead of the election.
Oseni’s comments come amid reports of tensions between Tinubu and some northern governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Recent reports have suggested that some northern APC governors have been reluctant to openly campaign for Tinubu’s second-term bid, raising concerns within the ruling party over its ability to maintain the level of northern support that contributed to the President’s victory in 2023.
The concerns are significant because the North remains a crucial battleground in the 2027 presidential contest. Any decline in support for the President across the region could force the APC to intensify its grassroots mobilisation and address internal disagreements ahead of the election.
Oseni also questioned the perception that the President enjoys widespread support across the North, urging Nigerians not to be misled by political narratives ahead of the election.
The political commentator’s position comes as opposition parties and presidential hopefuls increasingly seek to exploit economic concerns and divisions within the ruling party as they prepare for the 2027 contest.
Reports of disagreements between the Presidency and some northern governors have also added to concerns about the APC’s internal cohesion. Among the issues reportedly causing tension are the treatment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, the handling of financial disbursements to states and President Tinubu’s political relationship with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
