Tinubu still top contender for 2027 presidency – Tanko Yakasai

By Kunle Sanni

Prominent politician and founding member of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Tanko Yakasai, has declared that President Bola Tinubu remains the most likely candidate to win the 2027 presidential election, citing the President’s current political strength and widespread institutional backing.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Yakasai said no other contender presently matches Tinubu’s political momentum or national influence.

“Bola Tinubu is the sitting President. He has the support of his ministers, governors, and a wide political structure,” Yakasai stated. “Right now, there’s no other politician who possesses the same level of backing or preparedness for the next election.”

The elder statesman noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to dominate across several states and enjoys backing even from some opposition party governors, further boosting Tinubu’s re-election prospects.

“Unless there’s a dramatic shift in the political landscape, the odds are clearly in his favour,” he said. “So far, I haven’t seen any compelling reason or movement that would hinder his chances.”

Addressing the question of northern political alignment, Yakasai dismissed the idea that the North is currently positioned against the President, noting there is no official consensus among northern leaders on the 2027 race.

“In my view, he hasn’t taken any actions that are offensive to the North,” Yakasai said. “Besides, the North alone cannot decide who becomes President. Nigeria is a multi-regional, multi-ethnic country—alliances across zones are critical.”

Yakasai’s comments come amid ongoing political speculation over potential challengers to Tinubu’s leadership ahead of the next general election cycle. His remarks reflect growing views within parts of the northern political elite that President Tinubu remains the man to beat in 2027.