A frontline political scientist and public affairs analyst, Udenta Udenta, has stated that a presidential ticket featuring a strong southern candidate like Peter Obi alongside a credible northern running mate could potentially defeat President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Udenta, who is a founding national secretary of the Alliance for Democracy, expressed these views while appearing as a guest on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
He posited that the current political environment is conducive to a broad-based opposition alliance that emphasizes regional balance.
He said, “Any pairing today, a Peter Obi in the South and anyone else in the North, will defeat Bola Tinubu in 2027.”
The professor highlighted that Obi is the most prominent opposition figure in southern Nigeria, noting that the selection of a northern counterpart would be crucial for the opposition’s success.
He added, “The pairing in the South, what is evident and apparent, is Peter Obi, essentially in the South.
“The decision regarding who they choose in the North is for them to determine.”
Udenta further argued that deteriorating economic conditions could influence voter behavior as the next election approaches, indicating that public sentiment towards the current administration may negatively impact the ruling party.
He continued, “For Nigerians to long for the Buhari presidency is indicative of the failures of the Tinubu-led government. The question the President must consider as Nigerians approach an election is not about rhetoric or showmanship.
“How were we on May 29, 2023, and how are we today? The response will be clear: We are in a worse situation today than we were under the Buhari presidency.
“Abstract figures regarding macroeconomic stability or reduced inflation will not resonate with the populace; it is hunger that will speak for them. What truly matters is the standard of living.”
The public affairs analyst’s comments arise amid ongoing conversations within opposition factions about the possibility of forming a united front in preparation for the 2027 election.