Adamawa State Governor Umaru Fintiri has reiterated that the presidency should stay in the southern region for the 2027 elections, arguing that the South deserves to complete its eight-year term under Nigeria’s informal power-sharing arrangement.
Speaking on Sunrise Daily, Fintiri acknowledged that zoning is not enshrined in the constitution but insisted it remains crucial for maintaining national unity.
He added, “A northerner has no business at the moment contesting for the presidency. It is the South’s turn, and they should complete their eight years if we are serious about this country and leadership.”
President Bola Tinubu, from the South, is currently serving his first term in office.
Fintiri also addressed his relationship with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, saying it remains cordial despite Atiku’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“Political differences have not affected our personal ties. I am in APC, they are in another party. Nothing has gone bad,” the governor said.
Fintiri recently joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and defended his decision amid criticism that Nigeria is moving toward a one-party system because of rising defections.
He explained that his move was intended to better position Adamawa State to benefit from Federal Government initiatives.
“The decision was purely in the interest of the people and the state. For a long time, it has not been about winning elections but aligning to get more for our people,” he said.
Currently serving his second and final term, Fintiri stressed that his political realignment aims to secure greater development opportunities for the state and improve residents’ welfare.
Meanwhile, political actors in the South-South region have urged ADC to zone its presidential ticket to the South.
Onochie Osheokwu, South-South Regional Collegiate Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, called for a southern candidate, noting that former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi could be the strongest contender from the region.
In a related development, Adamu Atiku Abubakar, son of Atiku Abubakar, resigned from his role as Adamawa State Commissioner for Works and Energy Development, following Fintiri’s defection to APC.
In a letter dated March 2, 2026, he tendered his resignation with immediate effect, citing personal reflection and careful consideration.
Adamu Atiku described his time in office as a privilege, acknowledging the support and trust of Governor Fintiri, which enabled him to contribute to the state’s infrastructural growth. He also thanked Adamawa residents for their prayers and support and expressed gratitude to his parents for their guidance and blessings.
He emphasised that his resignation does not mark the end of his public service but signals a new phase of engagement in the state’s development.
The governor’s remarks and the resignation of Atiku’s son have intensified discussions about presidential zoning, political defections, and party alignments as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
