Reno Omokri, a former presidential aide, recently stated that Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kankwaso, and Nasir El-Rufai would not agree to run alongside Peter Obi for president in 2027. This statement was made via his Twitter account on Wednesday, May 15.
According to OBASANJONEWS24, Peter Obi had a meeting in Abuja with Atiku, Sule Lamido, and Bukola Saraki. However, Omokri emphasized that no respectable Northerner would be willing to challenge Obi for the presidency in 2027.
Omokri questioned the motives behind Obi’s engagement with influential figures from the North within the PDP, highlighting concerns about his reputation. He drew attention to past events involving religious tensions and emphasized the lasting impact such incidents can have on perceptions and memories in Northern Nigeria.
The individuals in question engage in the reading of al-Quran, a religious text that cautions against individuals known as Munafiq. It is important to acknowledge the sensitivity surrounding religion in Nigeria.
Given this context, it is highly unlikely that the Muslim Ummah will easily forgive and forget the words spoken by Peter Obi. It is worth noting that Peter Obi will soon reach the age of 63, and it is often said that people do not undergo significant changes at such an advanced age. Furthermore, Peter Obi has not taken responsibility for the tape in question nor has he offered an apology.
When directly asked about the tape, he evaded the question. Additionally, his actions of frequently switching between different churches and proclaiming, “Church, take back your country,” do not bode well for his chances of being forgiven by the Muslim community.
In terms of the South-South votes, it is unlikely that Obi will secure them in 2027 or have the ability to influence their direction.
This is contingent upon whether or not Tinubu is successful in completing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, or at least making significant progress towards its completion.
While some individuals may agree to meet with Obi out of courtesy, and some may even attempt to secure his support, it is highly improbable that any rational Northerner would align themselves with him.
This includes individuals such as Waziri Atiku, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Nasir-El-Rufai. In the case of Arewa, forgiveness may be granted for actions that affect the North, but touching upon matters related to Islam is unlikely to be forgiven.
