2027: Presidency should remain in the South — Gov Fintiri insists
Adamawa Governor Fintiri Advocates for Southern Presidency in 2027
Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has affirmed that the presidency should remain in the southern region of Nigeria in 2027, emphasizing the need for the region to complete eight years in accordance with the nation’s established power-sharing agreements.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, Fintiri acknowledged that while the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, he believes it plays a crucial role in fostering national unity.
“A northerner has no business at the moment to vie for the office of the president,” Fintiri stated. “It is the South’s turn; they should complete their eight years if we are really serious about this country and leadership.”
Current President Bola Tinubu, representing the South, is in the midst of his first term.
Fintiri also commented on his relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, noting that their bond remains amicable despite Fintiri’s recent transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Political differences have not affected our personal ties,” he said. “I still have. There is nothing that has gone bad. It is just that everybody has taken their political ways.”
Atiku, a fellow Adamawa native, is pursuing the presidency in the upcoming 2027 general election and is currently collaborating with the African Democratic Congress.
In light of mounting criticism regarding rising defections to the APC and concerns over a potential one-party system, Fintiri defended his decision to join the ruling party. He described the move as a measure to better position Adamawa State to access federal resources.
“The move was purely in the interest of the people and the state,” he asserted. “For long, it is not about winning elections but aligning and getting more for our people.”
Serving his second and final term in office, Fintiri reiterated that his political realignment is focused on securing increased opportunities for the development of Adamawa State.
