Former Kano State Governor and Senator, Ibrahim Shekarau, has urged Nigerians to prioritize the credibility and competence of presidential candidates over their regional origins, starting with the 2027 election cycle.
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics, Shekarau emphasized that debates surrounding a president’s region are irrelevant to effective governance.
“All parties must focus on presenting credible candidates. Nigerians should assess the quality of these candidates, not their backgrounds,” he stated. “If we’re only offered poor choices, we’ll have to select the least harmful option, but it’s the parties’ responsibility to give us better alternatives.”
Shekarau also shared his concerns about the current administration, urging President Bola Tinubu and his government to reevaluate their policies in light of widespread dissatisfaction.
“The recent protests against bad governance send a clear and urgent message,” he said. “These agitations transcend regional or state lines—they reflect national frustration. Nigerians are asking the government to revisit the drawing board and reassess their approach.”
The protests, which began on August 1, were sparked by the economic hardship stemming from the removal of fuel subsidies and the naira’s depreciation. While initially peaceful, the demonstrations escalated, leading to property damage, particularly in northern Nigeria.
Shekarau called on the government to address the root causes of public discontent, cautioning that the unity and stability of the nation depend on it.
