Tensions are rising within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as stakeholders from Nigeria’s North-Central zone demand a significant shift in the 2027 elections. The influential figures from the region have urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his running mate for the upcoming re-election, calling for a fresh face from their zone instead of Vice President Kashim Shettima.
This move comes as part of a broader strategy to push for a North-Central representative to occupy the vice-presidency, a region that feels it has long been overlooked in the political hierarchy. According to sources, a series of high-level consultations have already begun, with key political figures and former officeholders actively engaged in the efforts. These talks aim to ensure the zone secures the power it believes it deserves come 2027.
The North-Central Renaissance Movement, led by Chairman Nghargbu K’tso, has been at the forefront of this movement. In a statement, K’tso confirmed that a recent closed-door meeting included prominent personalities like former National Security Adviser Gen. Aliyu Gusau (retd.), His Royal Highness Musa Yunusa (Onah of Abaji), and ex-senator John Danboyi. The group is pushing for the North-Central presidency, arguing that the region is more than capable of leading the country, rather than remaining in a perpetual state of political subordination.
“We are advocating for the return of the presidency to the North-Central zone in 2027. Our consultations with prominent figures from across the region and the nation at large are strengthening this cause,” K’tso explained. “We believe that after decades of marginalization, it is time for the North-Central to take its rightful place in the political equation.”
This push for change comes just days after hundreds of stakeholders from the region made public their agreement to collectively work towards producing Nigeria’s next president. After over six decades of political exclusion, the North-Central has made it clear that it is time to have a seat at the table and participate fully in the nation’s leadership.
In a statement released by the group, they appealed for the support of Nigerians, emphasizing that it is time for the North-Central zone to be included in the leadership of the country, alongside other regions that have already enjoyed the privilege of producing both the president and vice president.
As political maneuvering continues ahead of the 2027 election, the stakes are high for all involved. Will the North-Central zone succeed in securing a place on the presidential ticket, or will these demands be sidelined once again?
Stay tuned as this political drama unfolds in the lead-up to one of Nigeria’s most anticipated elections.
