By TheLink News Political Desk
A political coalition under the banner of the North-Central Renaissance Movement (NCRM) has made a public call for the region to be considered for Nigeria’s vice-presidential slot in the 2027 general elections, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to realign the political structure in favor of greater regional equity.
In a statement issued Sunday in Abuja, the group emphasized what it described as a long-standing political marginalization of the North Central zone, particularly in the power-sharing formula at the federal level. It pointed out that the region—comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Nasarawa, and Plateau—has not produced a Vice President or President since Nigeria returned to democratic rule in 1999.
A Growing Political Reawakening
“The time has come for the North Central to be recognized, not just in words but in the configuration of executive power,” said NCRM spokesperson, Dr. Danladi Ahmed. “We believe it is politically just and strategically wise for President Tinubu to consider a vice-presidential candidate from this region in 2027, especially if he is seeking re-election.”
While the coalition did not directly call for the removal of current Vice President Kashim Shettima, its message was clear: any continuation of the Tinubu-Shettima ticket would not reflect what they describe as a “growing national demand for inclusion, fairness, and regional rotation.”
Political Calculations Begin to Shift
Though the 2027 elections are still two years away, subtle political realignments are already emerging. Analysts see the NCRM’s statement as a strategic move to place the North Central on the bargaining table early. The region has historically played a kingmaker role in Nigerian elections, with its diverse ethnic and religious makeup often making it a swing zone.
“From a purely political standpoint, the North Central is not just asking for recognition—it’s making a case based on numbers and contribution,” said political analyst Halima Musa. “The Tinubu administration may be forced to reckon with these demands if it wants to consolidate support across all six geopolitical zones.”
National Interest or Power Play?
Critics, however, argue that the call could sow division within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), especially if interpreted as a direct challenge to Vice President Shettima, who is from the North East. Some insiders warn that reshuffling the ticket may disrupt the delicate balance of regional interests that brought the current administration to power.
Still, others see the move as a necessary provocation that could force the APC—and other parties—to rethink how political power is distributed in a diverse federation like Nigeria.
No Response from the Presidency Yet
As of press time, the Presidency has not issued any formal response to the coalition’s demands. However, sources close to the administration suggested that while Tinubu remains focused on governance and reforms, “he’s aware of the signals being sent.”
What’s Ahead?
Whether or not the North Central will get its wish in 2027 remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: the zone is no longer content with being a silent player in Nigeria’s power game. As new voices emerge and old alliances shift, the road to 2027 is already taking shape—one strategic demand at a time.
