2027: Idimogu pushes for inclusion, says Muslim/Christian ticket ‘Will fly’

Chinedum Ukaegbu

Former Lagos State lawmaker, Jude Chukwuemeka Omobowale Idimogu, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider adopting a Muslim/Christian presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing it as a more inclusive and strategic option for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Idimogu, who represented Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, suggested in a press statement, noting that while the APC successfully won the 2023 presidential election with a Muslim/Muslim ticket, there is now a need to reflect Nigeria’s religious diversity in future political calculations.

According to him, bringing a Christian running mate on board in 2027 would strengthen the party’s appeal and foster greater confidence among Nigerians, particularly Christians, given the country’s secular nature.

“I want to advise my President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, regarding his running mate. For 2027, I strongly suggest that he should consider a very strong Christian as his Vice President. For me, I believe that a Muslim/Christian presidential ticket will fly,” Idimogu stated.

He added that such a move would promote inclusiveness and reassure both Muslims and Christians of balanced representation at the highest level of governance.

Idimogu further recommended that President Tinubu should engage in a private and respectful discussion with the current Vice President, Kashim Shettima, to ensure a smooth transition and avoid any form of political tension.

While acknowledging Shettima’s performance in office, Idimogu stressed that the suggestion was not a criticism of his capability but rather a strategic decision aimed at strengthening national unity and the APC’s electoral chances.

“Vice President Kashim Shettima has done well and is still doing well. It is not about competence, but about the reality that Nigeria is a secular state.

The decision we took in 2023 was tough, but I think the President should now give this a thought,” he said.

He also proposed that Shettima could be allowed to nominate a suitable Christian candidate from Northern Nigeria, thereby maintaining political balance and party cohesion.

Beyond domestic considerations, Idimogu pointed out that a balanced ticket could also enhance Nigeria’s image internationally and attract broader global support.

In a related development, the APC chieftain advised former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to align politically with President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to him, such an alliance would offer Obi a more realistic path to achieving his political ambitions, arguing that defeating the incumbent president would be extremely difficult under the current political landscape.

“Politics is about calculated alliances. It is not possible to remove Tinubu in the current reality. Obi should reconsider his position and work with the President,” Idimogu said.

He further urged Southern political leaders to unite behind Tinubu’s second-term bid, warning that multiple candidacies from the region could divide votes and weaken their collective influence.

Idimogu emphasized that zoning and political balance remain critical to national stability, adding that unity in the South would consolidate power and ensure continuity in governance.

He also expressed skepticism about the chances of opposition coalitions, including those reportedly involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, noting that such alliances may struggle to unseat the incumbent.

While acknowledging the importance of opposition in a democratic system, Idimogu maintained that strategic collaboration and long-term regional interests should take precedence as the 2027 elections approach.

He concluded by expressing optimism that President Tinubu would secure re-election with broad national support, promoting unity and stability across the country.