President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly considering four prominent northern Christian figures as potential running mates for the 2027 presidential election, according to multiple political sources.
Names widely discussed include former Speaker of the House, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Defence Minister Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah.
Reports suggest Tinubu’s inner circle is reviewing these options to achieve a balance of religion and geography, with all four candidates hailing from predominantly Christian northern states.
Analysts note that, under the 1999 Constitution, the APC standard-bearer retains the freedom to choose a running mate from any part of Nigeria.
The speculation follows criticism of the Muslim–Muslim ticket adopted by Tinubu in the 2023 elections, which drew scrutiny domestically and internationally, including from U.S. officials advocating for more inclusive governance.
Christian associations, civil society organisations, and community groups have highlighted insecurity in northern Christian communities, arguing that broader political representation could strengthen national unity.
Northern Muslim groups, however, maintain that insecurity affects all communities in the region, citing Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks, banditry, and mass kidnappings as evidence of a universal crisis.
Political analysts are now asking which of the four figures—Dogara, Musa, Mutfwang, or Kukah—could best serve as a unifying force capable of fostering national peace and prosperity.
Observers stress that, beyond religious and ethnic considerations, Nigeria’s next leadership must prioritize stability, economic growth, and equitable treatment of citizens across all six geopolitical zones.
