Umar Sani, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has asserted that Northern Nigeria would prefer former President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s presidential candidate in 2027 rather than Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s flagbearer in the 2023 elections.
Sani made these remarks during an appearance on Trust TV’s Daily Politics program, where he addressed growing speculation about the PDP’s potential alliances ahead of the next presidential race.
Sani acknowledged Obi’s reputation for integrity but argued that Jonathan presents a more reliable option for the North due to constitutional limitations on his tenure. The former media aide to ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo emphasised that Jonathan, having already served one term as president, would be legally barred from seeking re-election after four years, ensuring a natural transition.
“Between someone bound by law to leave after four years and someone making verbal promises, which would you choose?” Sani posed. “Jonathan’s tenure would have a definite end, whereas promises can be broken. For the North, Jonathan remains the safer bet.”
His comments come amid discussions within the PDP about possible strategies to reclaim power in 2027, including the potential return of Jonathan or an alliance with Obi. Sani’s perspective reflects regional political calculations, suggesting that Northern stakeholders may prioritise certainty over political pledges.
While recognising Obi’s appeal, Umar Sani framed Jonathan’s candidacy as a more structured and time-bound arrangement that could reassure power-sharing concerns within the country’s complex political landscape. The debate highlights ongoing tensions within opposition circles as they strategise to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in the next election cycle.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
