‘Presidents aren’t crowned’ — Atiku camp rebuts Onanuga over 2027 zoning debate

A dispute has emerged between supporters of President Bola Tinubu and allies of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar over the role of power rotation in the lead-up to the 2027 general election.

The exchange followed comments by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, who argued that President Tinubu should serve two terms in line with Nigeria’s informal North-South zoning arrangement. He made the remarks while responding to Atiku’s recent interview on Arise Television, in which the former presidential candidate indicated continued political involvement ahead of the next election cycle.

Onanuga maintained that, since Tinubu succeeded a northern president who governed for eight years, it is equitable for the South to retain power until 2031. His position has drawn criticism from opposition figures, who argue that such reasoning conflicts with democratic principles.

In a statement posted on X, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, rejected the claim that zoning should determine electoral outcomes. He described power rotation as a political convention rather than a binding rule.

“Power rotation is a political convention, not a constitutional decree—and certainly not a tool to silence credible opposition,” Shaibu wrote.

He further argued that the suggestion President Tinubu must complete two terms is inconsistent with democratic practice, stating that leadership should be decided by voters.

“Presidents are not guaranteed eight years—they are elected, and they can be voted out,” he said.

Shaibu also accused the ruling camp of using zoning arguments to divert attention from governance concerns, including economic pressures and inflation. He added that performance, rather than regional considerations, should guide electoral decisions.

He dismissed references to the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in discussions about zoning as inappropriate, and rejected claims of opposition disunity, including commentary involving Peter Obi.

According to Shaibu, criticism directed at Atiku by pro-government figures reflects his continued political relevance.

The presidency has not issued a formal response to the latest remarks.

The exchange signals rising political tension ahead of the 2027 elections, with debates over zoning, incumbency, and opposition alliances expected to shape the contest.