Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has announced that the northern region of Nigeria will decide within the next six months whom to support in the 2027 presidential election. He emphasized that no candidate can secure the presidency without northern backing and called for a leader who understands and can address the region's challenges. Baba-Ahmed also urged northerners to reject divisive politics and focus on competence and integrity in leadership selection.

In response, Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, dismissed Baba-Ahmed's remarks as "illogical" and lacking depth. Dare defended Tinubu's leadership, citing ongoing reforms and international endorsements as indicators of the administration's progress.

The discourse highlights the strategic importance of the northern region in Nigeria's political landscape and sets the stage for critical decisions ahead of the 2027 elections.