Northern discontent against Tinubu intensifies ahead of 2027, echoing Jonathan’s 2015 experience. Rising tensions, elite pushback, and alliances threaten his reelection
Northern discontent against Tinubu is rapidly intensifying, threatening to mirror the political unraveling that cost former President Goodluck Jonathan a second term in 2015.
Also read: Northern Leaders Critically Assess Tinubu’s Performance in Kaduna
As the 2027 presidential race heats up, the signs of brewing northern resistance are hard to ignore.
Much like the Jonathan era, President Bola Tinubu now finds himself walking a tightrope of regional resentment, elite disaffection, and grassroots agitation particularly from the northern political bloc that played a decisive role in electing him.
Northern stakeholders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former AGF Abubakar Malami, are coalescing under a rejuvenated African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform to challenge Tinubu’s presidency.
Accusations of nepotism and marginalization once levelled at Jonathan are again at the forefront.
Much of the anger stems from claims of underrepresentation in federal appointments, inadequate project allocations, and resurging insecurity in the north.
This environment, echoing the coordinated opposition that ousted Jonathan, is now being weaponized politically against Tinubu.
One of the most politically sensitive issues is the future of Vice President Kashim Shettima, with speculation swirling about his 2027 ticket status.
Echoing Namadi Sambo’s uncertain place in 2015, Shettima’s position remains a flashpoint in elite discussions and northern media narratives.
To placate the unrest, the Tinubu administration has ramped up appointments of northerners into strategic roles, including the naming of Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as APC National Chairman.
Additionally, strategic engagement with figures like Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and groups like Arewa Think Tank (ATT) shows an attempt to soften tensions.
Despite these efforts, David Mark’s remarks at the Northern Political Consultative Group reflect deep-rooted frustration.
He cited insecurity, poverty, and elite failure as reasons for northern stagnation. According to him, “The North remains the poorest region in the country… This is not the North that we inherited.”
Meanwhile, influential voices like Senator George Akume and Chekwas Okorie have urged patience, highlighting Tinubu’s infrastructural investments in the region and calling out perceived northern entitlement.
Said Okorie: “Tinubu has done more for the North than Buhari… They’re just looking for an excuse.”
Former Niger governor Babangida Aliyu also appealed for adherence to the power rotation principle, warning that premature northern ambition may destabilize Nigeria’s fragile political balance.
Despite these assurances, a wave of coordinated opposition, social media campaigns, and grassroots mobilization is gaining momentum suggesting that Tinubu’s real test lies not only in governance but in managing shifting allegiances and averting political betrayal from within.
Also read: Tinubu’s Poverty Strategy Lacks Urgency, Says Femi Falana
The northern discontent against Tinubu isn’t just political theatre it’s a strategic reckoning that could reshape Nigeria’s political trajectory ahead of 2027.
