Timi Frank, former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, has cautioned opposition leaders against promoting a Southern-only presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Frank described the idea as divisive and harmful to the opposition’s goal of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Nigeria needs a president for all Nigerians not for just the North or South,” he said.
Frank urged the coalition to focus on competence, nationwide appeal, and democratic primaries, rather than ethnic or regional sentiment.
He also criticized those pushing a southern agenda, calling it “an insult” to members from other regions. Frank pointed out that by 2027, the South would have held power for 18 years, compared to the North’s 10 years since 1999.
“As a Southerner, I stand for the truth. What Nigeria needs is experienced and inclusive leadership,” he added.
Frank, who also serves as ULMWP Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, urged parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to ensure free and fair primaries. He warned that promoting a regionally-exclusive ticket could fracture the coalition and stoke ethnic tensions.
“The next president should be chosen by all Nigerians not based on geography,” he concluded.
