Shehu Sani Warns Atiku's Win Could End Rotational Presidency

Former Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna Central, expressed concerns that a victory for Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in the 2027 presidential election would effectively terminate the informal principle of rotational presidency in Nigeria. During an interview on Channels Television's Today programme, Sani acknowledged Atiku's constitutional right to run but stressed that fairness and national unity should guide the electoral process.

He argued that the 2027 election should only feature southern candidates, suggesting that northern parties should step aside. Sani proposed that the ADC should have nominated former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, while the NDC should support Peter Obi and the APM should present Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

He noted that while rotational presidency lacks legal backing in the Nigerian constitution, it is crucial for maintaining peace and justice in the country. Sani also cautioned against using population size as a justification for political dominance by one region.