I’ll Back Peter Obi if He Emerges Coalition Candidate for 2027, Says Lamido

Former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido has expressed his willingness to support Peter Obi’s presidential bid in 2027 if he emerges as the standard bearer of an opposition coalition.

Lamido emphasized that his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains intact, but he prioritizes rescuing Nigeria from its current challenges.

According to Lamido, leadership should focus on competence and vision rather than geography. He criticized the continued use of zoning as a political tool, describing it as a relic of past crises that has now become an obstacle.

“Zoning was meant to be a healing mechanism after the June 12 annulment, not a permanent formula,” he stated.

The Middle Belt Forum has also hinted that it may throw its weight behind Obi, citing his integrity and promise to serve a single four-year term if elected. Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the forum’s president, acknowledged that Obi stands out in a political landscape where trust is in short supply.

Reactions to Obi’s proposal have been mixed, with some Northern stakeholders expressing skepticism. Alhaji Jamilu Charanchi of the Coalition of Northern Groups said, “Only time will reveal where the North’s true allegiance lies. Politicians always promise heaven and earth, but we’ll judge them by actions, not sweet words.”

Others, like Alhaji Murtala Abubakar of the Arewa Defence League, argued that the zoning formula is outdated and anti-democratic.

“We must move away from regional bargaining. Leadership should be earned through merit, not rotation,” he stated.