Tinubu deserves a chance till 2031 – Babangida Aliyu

Former Niger State Governor, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, has said that if Nigerians could endure the leadership of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari for eight years, then President Bola Tinubu deserves a fair chance to complete two terms in office.

Aliyu, who is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, made the statement during an interview on Arise Television’s The Morning Show..

He argued that the principle of rotational presidency between the North and South should be respected, and that attempts by northern politicians to contest in 2027 could create tension.

“I have heard many of the aspirants already saying they will serve one term,” he said. “If a northerner says he’s serving one term, what problem is he creating for the North?”

Aliyu added that despite challenges during Buhari’s tenure, Nigerians tolerated him for eight years and could also allow Tinubu to finish his term and possibly a second.

“If we could tolerate the late Muhammadu Buhari for eight years, let’s try this one. Maybe by 2031, we can review the arrangement,” he said.

He noted that while opposition groups like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) are gaining momentum, they must present credible options to the people.

“My argument has always been, what is the alternative? If you want to remove a president, what are you offering the people in return?”

Aliyu also warned that growing defections within political parties could escalate. “For now, only governors and lawmakers are defecting. By 2031, you may end up with a presidential defection. Is that not a constitutional issue?”