Northern Leaders Express Disappointment in Electing Tinubu in 2023, Promise Not to Make Similar Error Again

NEF Chairman

In the 2023 presidential race, Bola Tinubu, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), received the majority of votes from the northern part of the country among the top three candidates.

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) shared their regret for supporting President Bola Tinubu during the recent elections.

Tinubu, campaigning under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner, secured the most votes from the northern electorate out of the three foremost candidates in the race.

During a Guardian interview conducted on Tuesday, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the forum's spokesperson, stated that the region plans to ensure unity and agreement when endorsing a presidential candidate going forward.

Regarding Peter Obi, the Labour Party's (LP) candidate for the 2023 elections, and his recent visits and contributions to communities in the northern states, Suleiman mentioned a new priority for a leader who is more accommodating, less divisive, and better represents the whole nation's interests.

“The Northern region acknowledges the mistake made by electing Bola Tinubu as president in 2023, emphasizing unlikely repetition of this oversight,”

From this experience, they have learned to nominate a leader capable of unifying the nation and looking after the welfare of all its citizens.

Henceforth, the Northern region commits to being more meticulous in their presidential candidate selection. They aim to back an individual recognized for inclusivity, non-controversiality, and alignment with the national interest of all regions.

“This past support for Tinubu in 2023 has underscored for them the value of consensus and united decision-making in choosing the nation’s leading role,” as stated.

"Tinubu’s administration has faced substantial criticism for implementing policies perceived as detrimental to the general populace.

Atiku Abubakar, Tinubu’s main competitor from the previous election, critiqued the president’s policies earlier this week for their lack of compassion, particularly pointing out the increase in electricity tariffs.

"Despite criticism, the president reassures the citizens that the difficult times have passed, asserting his administration's control over the situation.

After the recent enactment of the Student Loan bill, Tinubu expressed optimism for Nigerian youth, promising a brighter future and a path out of poverty.

He further indicated that the economy was on the mend, with steps being taken to address inflation.