Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who suggested that the North should postpone its presidential ambitions until 2031.

Atiku, who was the candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, criticized President Bola Tinubu’s performance, asserting that he does not merit a second term, exclaiming, “God forbid!”

He emphasized that it is ultimately the Nigerian electorate who will determine their next President in 2027.

During a recent television interview, Akume stated, “As a southerner, President Tinubu should be given the opportunity for a second term, implying that those from the North aspiring for the presidency in 2027 should extend their timelines to 2031. If it is God’s will for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to become President of Nigeria, even at 90 years old, he can achieve that. However, he and other northern contenders should look beyond 2027.”

In response, Paul Ibe, a spokesperson for Atiku, questioned the concept of equity and fairness in Akume’s remarks. He pointed out, “By 2027, the South will have experienced 17 years of leadership—eight years under Obasanjo, five years under Jonathan, and four years under Tinubu. In contrast, the North will have had only 11 years, with Yar’Adua serving three years and Buhari eight years. This creates a six-year gap between the North and South, raising concerns about the balance of power.”

Ibe further asserted, “Ultimately, the authority to elect and remove government officials rests with the Nigerian populace, contingent upon the government’s capability to earn their trust. Has the Tinubu administration proven itself worthy of another term? The answer is as evident as the sky—God forbid!”