By Juliet Ezeh
A former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has cautioned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against choosing Peter Obi as his running mate in the 2027 presidential election, warning that such a move could weaken his political support base in northern Nigeria.
Omokri, who is Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Mexico, made the remarks in a post on his X account on Monday while reacting to comments by media entrepreneur Dele Momodu.
Momodu had earlier suggested that a joint ticket involving Atiku and Obi could defeat President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.
Concerns Over Northern Political Dynamics
While acknowledging Atiku’s political strength, Omokri argued that pairing with Obi could alienate voters in the North, where religious identity and historical political experiences often influence electoral behaviour.
According to him, such an alliance may even weaken Atiku’s support in his home state of Adamawa.
Omokri said the belief that an Atiku–Obi ticket would automatically defeat the incumbent president ignores the complex realities of northern politics.
He emphasised that political decisions in the region are frequently shaped by cultural and religious considerations, which could affect how voters interpret such a partnership.
Past Incidents Could Shape Voter Perception
Omokri also claimed that some voters in Adamawa State still remember the killing of Ahmed Gulak in Owerri in 2021.
Gulak, a politician from Adamawa, was shot dead by gunmen while travelling through Imo State.
He further referenced the 2022 killing of a pregnant woman, Harira Jubril, and her children in Anambra State, stating that Obi’s reaction to the incident had drawn criticism in parts of the North.
According to Omokri, such developments could influence voter perceptions if a political alliance is formed ahead of the 2027 election.
Debate Over Potential Opposition Coalition
The comments come amid increasing speculation about possible political alliances ahead of the next presidential race.
Analysts believe opposition parties could explore coalition strategies to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress government led by President Tinubu.
However, Omokri argued that politicians must consider regional sensitivities when forming alliances in a diverse country like Nigeria.
He noted that symbolic gestures such as visits to religious institutions or donations to communities may not necessarily erase political grievances held by some voters.
Growing Political Conversations Ahead of 2027
With the 2027 election cycle gradually approaching, discussions about potential alliances, power-sharing arrangements and regional balance are already shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
Observers say such debates are likely to intensify as parties and influential political figures begin positioning themselves for the next presidential contest.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.