By: Daure David, Political Correspondence
In a surprising twist ahead of the 2027 general elections, youth groups from Nigeria’s North East region have publicly endorsed Yusuf Buhari, son of former President Muhammadu Buhari, as the preferred running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The endorsement comes amidst growing calls for a strategic consolidation of Tinubu’s northern political base and a renewal of the Tinubu-Buhari alliance that shaped the 2015 and 2019 elections.
Statement from the Youth Coalitions; The youth groups, comprising various civil society organizations and political youth platforms across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Bauchi states, declared their support at a press briefing held in Bauchi. They emphasized the symbolism and continuity such a ticket would represent.
“Yusuf Buhari embodies the legacy of his father, and bringing him on board will not only validate Tinubu’s longstanding commitment to the North but also inspire a new generation of leadership,” the convener stated.
APC Political analysts interpret this move as a strategic attempt to revive the powerful APC coalition that brought Buhari and Tinubu to power nearly a decade ago. Some believe Yusuf Buhari’s relatively low political exposure could be both a challenge and a refreshing asset for a party looking to rebrand.
The endorsement has sparked mixed reactions across political and social circles more especially those from Vice President Kashim Camp. While some view the suggestion as a step toward strengthening national unity, others question the political experience and readiness of Yusuf Buhari for such a high-profile role.
As Nigeria inches toward the next election cycle, speculations continue to swirl around who will emerge as Tinubu’s running mate especially if he seeks re-election. Whether the endorsement gains traction within the ruling party remains to be seen, but it has undeniably stirred the political waters.
