Northern Presidency: Wait for 2031, SGF Akume tells Atiku

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other northern politicians with presidential aspirations to wait until 2031, asserting that the region’s turn for the presidency is not due in 2027.

Akume made the remarks during an interview on TVC’s Politics on Sunday program, hosted by Femi Akande.

He emphasized the need for patience and adherence to existing political agreements to ensure fairness in the nation’s leadership rotation.

Addressing the controversial Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly, the SGF defended them as crucial, visionary legislation aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy.

He appealed to Nigerians to support the bills and allow them to pass through the required legislative processes, emphasizing their potential to improve the nation’s economic outlook.

“These bills are well-envisioned for Nigeria and Nigerians. Let us allow the legislative processes to take their course. These reforms will ultimately benefit everyone when fully implemented,” Akume stated.

On the 2027 Presidency

Addressing political ambitions for the presidency, Akume called on those eyeing the position to wait until 2031, allowing President Tinubu, a southerner, the opportunity to complete a potential second term.

“President Tinubu should be allowed to serve a second term. Those from the North, including Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, should look beyond 2027 and consider 2031,” he said.

Akume added, “If it is God’s will for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to become President, even at the age of 90, it will happen. But for now, they should let President Tinubu continue his work of repositioning the nation.”

Highlighting the administration’s economic strategies, Akume pointed to the removal of fuel subsidies and the harmonization of foreign exchange windows as key steps in stabilizing the economy.

“It is easy to destroy but difficult to build. These reforms aim to rebuild the Nigeria that was destroyed by previous administrations,” Akume remarked.

He expressed optimism that the results of these measures would soon be visible, restoring confidence in the nation’s economic trajectory. “Very soon, Nigerians will begin to see the positive outcomes of these reforms,” he concluded.