The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has cast doubt on former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential presidential bid for the 2027 elections, particularly his promise of a one-term presidency as a bargaining chip for Northern support. According to ACF National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad Baba, the North won’t be swayed solely by such a promise. Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show, Baba emphasized that the idea of a one-term presidency is more of a political tactic than a constitutional requirement.
Baba noted that while Jonathan has earned some goodwill since leaving office, winning over voters in the North requires more than just a one-term promise. “Every candidate must present a compelling case for support,” he said, adding that Jonathan’s post-2015 legacy, including his peaceful concession and diplomatic engagements, wouldn’t automatically translate into strong support in the North. The ACF official urged Nigerians to prioritize merit and vision when making their choices, rather than regional calculations.
The ACF highlighted the historical political diversity of the North, referencing multiple parties and ideological leanings that have shaped the region’s politics. “From the First Republic to the 2023 elections, the North has never voted as a single bloc,” Baba explained. “It remains one of the most politically diverse regions in Nigeria.” This diversity, he said, underscores the need for candidates to engage with voters on a broader platform, rather than relying on regional or ethnic identities.
Baba also addressed development concerns in the North, particularly in areas like infrastructure and education. Rather than politicizing these issues, he emphasized the need for constructive engagement and evidence-based solutions. “National resource allocation must be assessed not only on paper but by real-world impact,” he said. “Numbers must be matched with tangible outcomes.”
