2027: Tinubu’s northern support faces test amid economic hardship

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has formally launched its campaign for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, drawing thousands of supporters, political officeholders and party leaders to a large turnout.

Speakers at the rally called for northern unity behind Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing projects and policies they said had benefited the region.

However, the large turnout has not settled the debate over Tinubu’s popularity in the North, where some citizens have expressed dissatisfaction with the administration’s economic policies.

Speaking to DAILY POST, Professor Kamilu Sani Fagge, a political scientist at Bayero University, Kano, cautioned against interpreting the number of people at the APC rally as evidence that Tinubu maintains widespread support for the candidate being promoted.

“This rally does not show love for the president, and not everyone who attends it will vote for President Tinubu,” Fagge said.

“When people gather there, their numbers may appear more substantial than they would in a bigger stadium,” he said.

Sadi said he supported giving Tinubu another opportunity to complete ongoing programmes and consolidate the administration’s policies.

Efforts to persuade voters will form part of the wider contest over the political direction of the North.

Ultimately, the extent of Tinubu’s support among northern voters will become clearer as the election approaches.