Ortom rules out supporting northern candidate in 2027 election
Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has declared that he will not support any northern candidate in the 2027 presidential election. He emphasized his commitment to backing a southern candidate—either from his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), or another political party—citing the principle of rotational presidency.
Speaking to journalists, Ortom reaffirmed his belief in the informal agreement that power should rotate between the North and the South, with each region holding the presidency for eight years. He insisted that this balance must be maintained for the sake of national unity and fairness.
“I firmly support the idea that after eight years of northern leadership, the presidency should return to the South,” he said. “In 2023, I made it clear that I would rather lose my senatorial bid than support a northern candidate. That principle still stands.”
Ortom also expressed cautious optimism about President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, urging Nigerians to support his administration while pushing for necessary reforms.
“In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king,” he remarked. “Despite the many challenges we face, President Tinubu is doing his best. He listens, even to people like us. I’ve made recommendations on reforms like fuel subsidy removal and tax restructuring, and he has been receptive.”
He added that good leadership should transcend party lines: “If someone comes along who is more capable, we should assess them and, if necessary, support them—regardless of party. It’s about the greater good.”
Reiterating his position, Ortom concluded, “The South has not completed its turn. If my party produces a credible southern candidate, I’ll support them. But if not, I’ll back any capable candidate from the South, no matter the party. One thing is certain—I will not support a northern candidate in 2027.”
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