Saraki Rules Out 2027 Presidential Bid, Backs South to Complete Tenure

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has ruled out a bid for the 2027 presidential election, pointing to equity and the need for the South to complete its tenure in the current power rotation arrangement.

Addressing the matter, Saraki emphasised that his stance aligns with the long-standing principle of balancing political power between Nigeria’s North and South.

“I’m not contesting in 2027 because I believe that it’s only fair that the South came in 2023 and let them finish in 2027. In 2031, there is no ambiguity for those of us that come from the North,” he said.

He further explained that by 2031, the zoning structure should clearly tilt towards the North, eliminating any uncertainty or contention over which region should produce the next president.

“So when it comes to 2031, God sparing our lives and giving us good health, it’s North as opposed to anything that gives anybody an excuse that in 2031 those from the North want to contest, those from the South want to contest,” he stated.

PulseNets learnt that Saraki also cautioned that entering the 2027 race would likely weaken his political support base in the South, as it could be interpreted as undermining the existing rotational understanding.

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“In 2027, I’m not going to contest because we will not get the sympathy of those in the South; they have four years and there’s another four, let them finish and go,” he added.