In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Okupe argued that it would be unjust for the North to regain power in 2027, stressing that the South should be permitted to fulfill its eight-year term.
He recognized Atiku’s qualifications but insisted that his candidacy would encounter the same obstacles as in 2023.
Okupe noted that Atiku’s campaign was viewed as a threat to the North-South power rotation, which played a role in his defeat.
He pointed out that while Atiku has the right to run in 2027, the principle of power rotation remains, and a Southerner would have only completed four years, warranting another four-year term.
“Atiku lost in 2023, not due to any personal shortcomings, but because many believed that a northern Muslim should not be succeeded by another northern Muslim after eight years.
“If Atiku decides to run again in 2027, he is entitled to do so. He is highly qualified and among the best candidates available, but geopolitical considerations come into play. The situation remains that a candidate from the South would have just finished a four-year term and would be seeking another four years.
“It’s not in the constitution, but we agree that when a Northerner does his eight years, a Southerner will do. So, the North cannot now terminate the tenure of the South in 2027. It is not going to work,” Okupe told NAN.
Okupe’s remarks follow recent discussions among stakeholders from both the North and South in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
He recognized that Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is highly qualified to compete in 2027.
However, he urged Northern aspirants to set aside their ambitions for the sake of national unity.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
