Kenneth Okonkwo, a key figure in the opposition alliance, has advised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to field a northern presidential candidate in the 2027 elections if it hopes to defeat incumbent President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, the actor-turned-lawyer said presenting a southern candidate such as Peter Obi would only strengthen Tinubu’s chances of re-election.
“My strategy this time around is to support a northerner in 2027,” Okonkwo stated, emphasizing the need for a candidate who enjoys widespread support across the northern region.
He suggested that political heavyweights such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, or former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal could boost the opposition’s chances if presented as the ADC’s standard-bearer.
“The person must be qualified, and if he has experience in the presidency, it is an added advantage,” he added, noting that a strong running mate from the south could further enhance the ticket’s appeal.