Southern Groups Demand Southern Candidate for 2027 Election

On Tuesday, a coalition of southern Nigerian socio-cultural organizations, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Pan Niger Delta Forum, held a press conference in Abuja urging political parties to adopt a southern candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The meeting, attended by leaders such as Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Bitru Pogu, John Azuta Mbata, and Godknow Igali, emphasized the need for state police as a measure to combat the country's escalating insecurity.

The coalition reiterated its earlier stance from the 2023 elections, criticizing the northern dominance in presidential positions and highlighting the importance of political stability. They expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation, noting that 70% of Nigeria's territory remains ungoverned.

The Southern Middle Belt Leaders Forum called for a restructuring of the federation to allow for greater autonomy and the establishment of state police. They also urged the federal government to support local refining capacities to reduce reliance on imported petroleum products.