ACF former scribe Anthony Sani says most Northerners may not vote Atiku Abubakar in 2027, citing opposition divisions and zoning politics
Former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Anthony Sani, has said that a majority of Northerners are unlikely to support African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2027 general election.
Also read: Atiku Abubakar Secures Deal with Hayatu-Deen After ADC Primary
Sani made the remarks during a media chat with DAILY POST, where he also expressed concern over growing divisions within Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the next presidential poll.
He further suggested that Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, would not accept a one-term presidency arrangement, a position he said could further complicate opposition negotiations.
According to him, the fragmentation of opposition parties remains a major factor that could influence the outcome of the 2027 election.
“In 2023, the opposition was split into PDP, NNPP, Labour Party and Wike’s G5. As a result, Bola Tinubu rose from the ashes of opposition split,” Sani said.
He argued that similar divisions are already emerging ahead of 2027, with multiple factions within major opposition parties weakening their chances of forming a united front.
“Currently, the opposition is split into factions of PDP, ADC and NDC. And as long as the politics of identity called zoning is preferred by both the North and the South, and the South wishes to complete its 8 years while the North expects to produce the president in 2031, the dynamics favour President Bola Tinubu, who must leave that office in 2031,” he added.
Sani maintained that zoning politics and regional expectations remain key factors shaping Nigeria’s electoral landscape, warning that unresolved tensions could further fragment opposition strength.
He also stated that the absence of a unified opposition platform could repeat the outcome of the 2023 election.
“President Peter Obi would not agree to do one tenure while the majority of northerners will not vote for former VP Atiku lest they spoil the existing politics of identity,” he said.
Also read: Atiku Abubakar Secures Deal with Hayatu-Deen After ADC Primary
Sani concluded by stressing the need for a stronger and more coordinated opposition to provide a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.
