The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has urged Nigerians in the North to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, arguing that the region should defer its presidential ambition until 2031.
Akume made the appeal on Saturday while addressing Benue indigenes residing in Kaduna, ahead of the All Progressives Congress presidential campaign flag-off in the state.
He maintained that presenting a Northern presidential candidate in 2027 could undermine the region’s political interests and create divisions among its people.
According to him, the North should allow Tinubu to complete his administration’s political agenda before considering producing the next president.
“President Bola Tinubu should be allowed to complete his political project before the North considers its own presidential ambition in 2031,” Akume said.
The former Benue State governor also called on Northern political leaders and stakeholders to prioritise collective interests over individual ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He warned that political disagreements, religious differences and personal interests should not be allowed to weaken the region’s unity.
“We must not allow political, religious or personal differences to undermine our common interests. The strength of the North lies in our ability to work together,” he stated.
Akume further stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups, noting that national development depended on unity.
He urged Northerners to carefully assess political developments and avoid supporting interests that could conflict with the region’s long-term aspirations.
The meeting brought together Benue indigenes in Kaduna and other political stakeholders to discuss community concerns, political representation and engagement with national leaders.
The APC’s planned campaign flag-off in Kaduna is expected to attract party leaders, supporters and political stakeholders from different parts of the country.
