A prominent Muslim advocacy coalition in Northern Nigeria, the Concerned Northern Muslim Ummah, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider selecting a Northern Christian as his vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
The call was made in a statement issued on Sunday by the group’s convener, Bala Duguri, who said the recommendation was the outcome of extensive consultations with Islamic bodies and communities across the North.
Duguri noted that while there is growing support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, current political realities demand a more inclusive approach particularly regarding religious balance in leadership.
“Our group has undertaken wide consultations across the northern states with different Islamic organisations to build consensus on the political trajectory of the APC-led administration. The outcome is very encouraging,” Duguri stated.
Call for Equity and National Unity
The group emphasized that its recommendation was guided by principles of equity, fairness, and national cohesion, rather than political ambition.
“The sacrifices made by our Christian brothers and sisters during the 2023 elections, in the spirit of unity and national progress, should not be overlooked. It’s time for Muslim political actors to reciprocate that goodwill,” Duguri said.
The Concerned Northern Muslim Ummah urged all Northern Muslim politicians aspiring to the vice-presidential slot to set aside personal ambition and support the emergence of a Christian running mate for Tinubu.
“We believe such a gesture would strengthen the country’s unity, douse rising tensions, and enhance the president’s popularity going into the next election,” the statement added.
Duguri further stressed that the group’s position is rooted in genuine concern for long-term peace and progress in Nigeria, not partisan calculations.
“After consulting key stakeholders across religious, ethnic, and political divides, it is our firm belief that the most appropriate and unifying step is to have a Northern Christian as Vice President in 2027.”
Outreach to Religious and Traditional Institutions
To galvanize broader support, Duguri revealed plans to intensify engagement with major religious and traditional institutions, including:
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The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA)
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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
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Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa’Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS)
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Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI)
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The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria
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And various traditional rulers
“This move is critical to stabilizing our democracy and will significantly enhance President Tinubu’s electoral chances. With such a gesture of inclusivity, we are confident he will win by a landslide,” Duguri said.
Contrasting Views Within the APC
However, the group’s position diverges from that of some APC stakeholders—particularly in Borno State—who have publicly endorsed Vice President Kashim Shettima for a second term.
In April, APC leaders in Borno held a meeting in Maiduguri where they reaffirmed their support for Shettima, citing his unwavering loyalty and contributions to the success of Tinubu’s administration.
“We pray for Mr. President to retain His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima as Vice President for his second term,” a communiqué from the meeting read.
The unfolding discourse signals a potential internal debate within the APC over the future configuration of its 2027 presidential ticket, with inclusivity and performance both being weighed as key factors.
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