Akume Says North Should Respect Power Rotation Ahead of 2027 Election
Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, reiterated the critical importance of Nigeria's established power rotation agreement between Northern and Southern regions, calling it fundamental to national cohesion and democratic growth. He urged strict adherence to the agreed eight-year alternating presidential cycles. Akume also acknowledged the significant charitable interventions by the Order of the Knights of St. Mulumba, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in national development and welfare.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume has urged northern politicians to respect Nigeria’s power-sharing arrangement and allow the South to complete its current eight-year presidential tenure before the North seeks the office again.
Akume made the call on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Order of the Knights of St. Mulumba, led by its Supreme Knight, Sir Steve Adehi.
He described the arrangement as an understanding reached by political leaders in 1999 to promote fairness and national unity.
The agreement behind the debate
Akume said the arrangement emerged from consultations among governors-elect on the Peoples Democratic Party platform and other political leaders in Kaduna in 1999.
Under the understanding, the presidency would alternate between the North and South in eight-year periods, beginning with the South. Former President Muhammadu Buhari served two terms from 2015 to 2023, followed by President Bola Tinubu, who took office in May 2023.
Akume argued that the South should be allowed to complete its turn before northern politicians seek the presidency in 2027.
However, the rotation arrangement is a political understanding, not a provision of Nigeria’s Constitution. Its application therefore remains a matter of political agreement and contestation.
Zoning remains part of the 2027 conversation
The debate over zoning is likely to remain part of discussions as political parties prepare for the next general election. Supporters argue that rotation helps different regions feel represented at the highest level of government. Others may prioritise party competition, candidates’ records and other political considerations.
Akume’s position is that respecting the arrangement would help maintain trust between the regions and preserve political stability. His comments also align with his public support for Tinubu seeking a second term in 2027.
The question of zoning will ultimately be shaped by decisions within political parties and the candidates they choose to field.
Akume also praises charitable work
During the meeting, Akume thanked the Order of the Knights of St. Mulumba for its support for vulnerable people. Adehi said the organisation had helped fund medical treatment, supported inmates struggling to pay fines, provided boreholes and assisted schools and hospitals.
Adehi said the initiatives were intended to complement government efforts to address social and economic challenges.
The meeting brought together two subjects: the political arrangements used to manage Nigeria’s regional diversity and the role of private organisations in supporting communities.