Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has urged northern political leaders to set aside their ambitions for the presidency in 2027 and instead focus on the 2031 elections.
Speaking on Sunday during a political program on TVC, Akume emphasized that the South deserves to retain the presidency for a second term under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Akume highlighted that President Tinubu’s administration, which has implemented significant tax reforms and other economic policies, still enjoys widespread support among Nigerians. He expressed confidence that Tinubu would lead the country effectively for two terms, covering eight years in total.
In his remarks, Akume specifically addressed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stating that the idea of running for president in 2027 should be reconsidered.
Also defending the recent tax reform bills, Akume described them as crucial for Nigeria’s progress. He called on citizens and lawmakers to support the legislative process to ensure these reforms become law, adding that they were carefully designed to benefit the nation.
In his words, “President Tinubu as a southerner, should be allowed to have a second term, meaning that those eyeing the Presidency from the North in 2027 should look beyond that year by waiting till 2031.
“If it is the will of God for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to be President of Nigeria, even at the age of 90 years, he can get it. But he and other northerners eyeing the office now should look beyond 2027.”
Akume appealed to Nigerians to allow the bills to scale through the required legislative processes, saying, “They are well-envisioned for Nigeria and Nigerians.”
