Fresh political discussions suggest that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is quietly assessing four prominent northern Christian leaders as possible running mates ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Sources across print, broadcast and online media have consistently mentioned former Speaker Yakubu Dogara, Defence Minister Lt-Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, as names in serious circulation within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to multiple reports, the president’s inner circle has been reviewing these options as part of a broader strategy aimed at balancing religion and geography, with all four potential picks coming from predominantly Christian northern states.
Analysts note that Tinubu retains constitutional freedom under the 1999 Constitution to select his running mate from any part of the country, as debate continues over inclusivity following criticism of the Muslim–Muslim ticket adopted in the 2023 elections. While Christian groups and civil society organisations argue that balanced representation could strengthen national unity and address insecurity in northern Christian communities, northern Muslim groups counter that violence from Boko Haram, ISWAP, banditry and kidnappings has affected all communities regardless of faith. As the 2027 political season approaches, commentators say the choice of a running mate will play a significant role in shaping alliances, public perception and internal party dynamics within the APC.