2027: Northern politicians pushing personal agendas, not speaking for region – Okai Austin

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Rather than truly representing the people of the north, many northern leaders are using the region’s name to further their own political agendas, according to Usman Okai-Austin, a political activist and former Peoples Democratic Party candidate for the Dekina/Bassa Federal Constituency in the 2023 elections.

No one is yet speaking for the North, Okai-Austin disclosed in an exclusive interview with ZINGTIE on Thursday.

He claims that people are disguising themselves in the name of the North in order to further their own goals.

He maintained that it is generally exaggerated to say that northern Nigeria is divided on political issues, such as the 2027 presidential contest.

“The North has not taken any decision yet. Before we can say it is divided, there has not been any united force or collaborative decision from the North,” he said.

Speaking about earlier political actions, Okai-Austin stated that some leaders had historically supported particular candidates or programs for their own benefit.

“When Buhari wanted to leave, there was an attempt for the North to produce the next president. Some pushed for former Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, while others like El-Rufai insisted the South should have its turn for national unity. These actions were driven by individual ambitions,” he explained.

“El-Rufai also promoted the Muslim-Muslim ticket, claiming it worked because of its implementation in Kaduna. Many believed he was aiming for the vice presidency, but when that didn’t materialize, he was nominated for a ministerial position. However, after being challenged by a petition from Senator Kahinde concerning national security, the alliance fell apart,” he added.

“That is how they fell apart, with El-Rufai admitting that Nuhu Ribadu does not want anyone from the North to succeed because of his 2031 ambition. According to El-Rufai, anyone from the North who shows promise is likely to be undermined by Ribadu, as he is eyeing the 2031 presidency.”

He said that policymakers should give priority to resolving the urgent problems that northerners continue to face, such as poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and out-of-school children.

“It’s a region that demands comfort and special attention. But instead of focusing on these problems, some leaders exploit the North for personal political gains,” Okai-Austin said.

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