Opposition Must Present Strong Southern Candidate in 2027, Akande Says; Backs Amaechi, Obi

Former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande, has said that former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and former Peter Obi are the two southern politicians best positioned to mount a credible challenge against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Akande stated this on Friday while speaking on Sunrise Daily, a breakfast programme on Channels Television, where he stressed that a strong and organised opposition remains essential for the survival of democracy in Nigeria.

According to him, for opposition parties to remain relevant ahead of 2027, they must accept that presidential power should remain in the South and begin early to rally around credible southern contenders with proven governance experience.

He noted that although opposition politics is still being shaped by the influence of Atiku Abubakar, the current political reality demands clarity on zoning and national balance.

Akande said the continued uncertainty over who leads the opposition may weaken efforts to build a serious electoral challenge against the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Speaking further, he argued that both Amaechi and Obi possess the political background, national visibility and administrative records needed to stand toe-to-toe with President Tinubu.

He described Amaechi as a seasoned political figure whose experience spans the legislature, executive governance and federal cabinet service, adding that his role in infrastructure development at the national level gives him strong credentials.

On Obi, Akande suggested that his growing national appeal and reform-focused political identity also place him in a strong position within the opposition space.

He warned that if opposition parties fail to quickly unite behind a viable southern candidate, stronger political actors may still dominate the field through internal influence and party structures.

Akande maintained that for democracy to deepen, Nigerians must see a competitive and credible opposition capable of presenting a real electoral alternative in 2027.