The Arewa Youth Movement has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to select a Northern Christian as his running mate if he intends to contest and win the 2027 presidential election.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the group, led by its National President, Ambassador Muhammed Sa’ad Aboki, emphasized the importance of correcting what they described as religious and regional imbalances witnessed in the last election cycle.
According to the movement, choosing a Northern Christian vice presidential candidate would significantly enhance Tinubu’s chances of gaining broader support, particularly in the Middle Belt and northern regions with large Christian populations.
“Among the most discussed prospects is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose potential re-election bid could reshape the political landscape once more. His ability to mobilize political support, manage alliances, and command loyalty within the APC makes him a formidable contender,” Aboki stated.
“Selecting a Christian running mate from the North would address the criticisms of religious imbalance and broaden Tinubu’s appeal, especially in the Middle Belt and other Christian-dominated areas of the North. A Northern Christian VP would send a strong message of unity, inclusiveness, and sensitivity to Nigeria’s diverse religious makeup.”
The group noted that the 2023 presidential election results underscored the importance of religious inclusion in national politics, citing Tinubu’s losses in key areas such as the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, and Plateau states—regions with high concentrations of Northern Christians.
“Choosing a Christian Vice Presidential candidate from Northern Nigeria would not only help address the imbalance of the 2023 ticket but also strengthen Tinubu’s chances of securing a broad-based mandate. This move could be seen as a corrective measure and a gesture of goodwill in response to past criticisms,” the group added.
