A former Lagos lawmaker, Hon. Jude Idimogu, has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and National Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027. Idimogu made the appeal while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary celebrations on October 1, 2026. He emphasized that four years would not be enough for Tinubu to complete his reform agenda.
Idimogu expressed confidence in Tinubu's leadership, describing him as a patriotic Nigerian committed to moving the country forward. He urged citizens across regions to rally behind the president, noting that opposition parties have a role to play in a democracy but should provide viable alternatives to the government's policies. According to Idimogu, Tinubu is just over three years in office and cannot perform magic, stressing that his reforms will take a while to reach ordinary Nigerians.
The former lawmaker appealed for respect for the zoning arrangement, arguing that with the presidency currently in the South, the North should wait until 2031. He urged Atiku, a longtime friend, to sheath his sword and support Tinubu, saying it is not the North's turn now. Idimogu also appealed to Obi, whom he described as his brother, to support Tinubu in the interest of southern unity, warning that dividing the South would push power to the North.
Idimogu emphasized that Tinubu would win re-election in 2027, citing his hard work and widespread support. He expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would retain power, saying it would not be easy but Tinubu would emerge victorious. The former lawmaker urged Nigerians to continue to criticize constructively where necessary, but allow the president to complete his tenure through a second term ending in 2031.
Idimogu's appeal comes as the country celebrates its 66th Independence anniversary. He noted that Rome was not built in a day and that Tinubu's government needs the support and prayers of Nigerians to deliver on its promises. The former lawmaker described Tinubu as a leader who is doing his best, but needs more time to achieve his goals.
The zoning arrangement has been a contentious issue in Nigerian politics, with different regions vying for the presidency. Idimogu's appeal to Atiku and Obi is seen as an attempt to promote unity and stability within the country. He argued that there is no point trying to abort the zoning arrangement now, as it would not help the country.
Idimogu's comments have sparked reactions from various stakeholders, with some calling for Atiku and Obi to consider his appeal. Others have dismissed his comments, saying that the decision to contest or support a candidate is a personal one. The 2027 presidential election is expected to be a keenly contested one, with various candidates already jockeying for position.
Key points
- Former Lagos lawmaker Jude Idimogu urges Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027.
- Idimogu says four years would not be enough for Tinubu to complete his reform agenda.
- The zoning arrangement has been a contentious issue in Nigerian politics, with different regions vying for the presidency.
