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The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has declared that any Northerner seeking the presidency in 2027 is misleading the region, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be allowed to complete his political project before the North considers another presidential bid in 2031.
Akume made the position known while addressing Benue State indigenes resident in Kaduna, where he urged Northerners to remain united and resist political moves that could undermine the region’s collective interests.
The SGF argued that the North should not be distracted by the 2027 presidential contest, stressing that political leaders must consider the broader implications of their ambitions for national unity and the region’s future.
According to him, the North must remain focused on its long-term political interests rather than allow individual ambitions to create divisions among its people.
Akume’s remarks appeared to reinforce the argument that the region should support Tinubu’s continued leadership in 2027, while considering its own presidential ambitions in 2031.
The former Benue State governor also cautioned against attempts to divide Northerners along political, religious and personal lines, urging them to prioritise collective interests over individual ambitions.
He reflected on Nigeria’s political history, recalling previous disagreements among political leaders and warning against repeating mistakes that could weaken the region’s political influence.
Akume emphasised that unity and cooperation remained essential to the North’s political relevance, noting that the region’s strength depended on its ability to pursue common objectives.
He urged the gathering to examine political developments carefully and avoid being misled by individuals whose ambitions might conflict with the broader interests of the region.
The SGF also stressed the importance of national unity, peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
He noted that the country’s progress depended on the ability of its people to work together despite their differences.
Akume further encouraged the preservation of cultural identity and traditions, emphasising the importance of shared heritage in strengthening relationships among communities.
The meeting brought together Benue indigenes living in Kaduna and other political stakeholders to discuss issues affecting their community, political representation and their relationship with leaders at the national level.
During the gathering, speakers also highlighted the importance of political participation and collective engagement in advancing the interests of their people.
