2027 Presidency: ‘South Must Complete Eight Years’ — Umaru Fintiri Declares, Backs Power Rotation

Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has declared that Nigeria’s presidency should remain in the South in 2027, arguing that the region must complete a full eight-year tenure under the country’s informal power-sharing arrangement.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, the governor maintained that although zoning is not enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution, it remains a vital tool for fostering national cohesion and political stability.

“A northerner has no business at the moment to vie for the office of the president,” Mr Fintiri said. “It is the South’s turn; they should complete their eight years if we are really serious about this country and leadership.”

Zoning Debate Gains Momentum Ahead of 2027

The comments come amid growing political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general election. President Bola Tinubu, who hails from the South, is currently serving his first term in office.

Although zoning — the informal rotation of power between North and South — is not legally binding, it has shaped Nigeria’s political calculations for decades. Supporters argue it ensures inclusivity in a diverse federation, while critics insist competence, not geography, should determine leadership.

Mr Fintiri’s remarks are likely to intensify debate within political circles, particularly in northern states where potential aspirants may be weighing their options.

Relationship With Atiku ‘Still Cordial’

The Adamawa governor also addressed speculation surrounding his relationship with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, following his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Atiku, also from Adamawa State, is seeking the presidency in 2027 and is now aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Despite their political divergence, Mr Fintiri insisted their personal relationship remains intact.

“I still have. There is nothing that has gone bad. It is just that everybody has taken their political ways, and I am today in APC, they are in another party,” he said.

Defection to APC ‘In Adamawa’s Interest’

Mr Fintiri defended his decision to join the APC, dismissing criticism that Nigeria is sliding toward a one-party state amid a wave of defections to the ruling party.

According to him, the move was driven by strategic considerations aimed at securing greater federal support for Adamawa State.

“The move was purely in the interest of the people and the state… because for long, it is not about winning elections but aligning and getting more for our people,” he said.

Serving his second and final term as governor, Mr Fintiri argued that political alignment with the federal government would enhance development prospects for the state.

With 2027 fast approaching, the debate over zoning, party realignments and regional balance is expected to shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the months ahead.