Former members of the National Assembly have thrown their weight behind President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election while also calling for a constitutional provision to guide rotational presidency beyond 2031. The resolutions followed discussions at the National Forum of Former Legislators’ national summit themed on unity and nation-building.
The forum agreed to adopt Tinubu as its sole candidate for the next presidential election and urged political actors to rely on dialogue and democratic processes in addressing national issues. Members also agreed that political disagreements should be settled through consultation rather than confrontation.
On power sharing, the former lawmakers stated that the presidency should move back to the North in 2031 after the South completes its turn. They argued that this arrangement would help maintain balance among regions and reduce long-standing political tension. To avoid uncertainty in future elections, they asked that rotational presidency be clearly stated in the Constitution.
The forum also passed a vote of confidence in the current administration and called for support for Tinubu to complete two full terms in office. According to the group, continuity would allow ongoing policies and reforms to run their course.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, told the gathering that unity was necessary for Nigeria to remain stable in a changing global environment. He said the experience of former lawmakers remained useful in guiding national decisions and policy direction. He also warned that division along ethnic or religious lines could weaken the country’s ability to protect its interests and manage economic and security challenges.
Gbajabiamila further advised politicians to avoid personal ambition that could disrupt the balance between regions, noting that cooperation between the North and South had helped keep the country together over the years.
Earlier, the forum’s national coordinator said the position on power rotation followed consultations across different parts of the country. He added that members agreed the South should complete its eight-year tenure before leadership returns to the North in the interest of peace and stability.
The forum ended the summit by calling on leaders and citizens to support democratic values and work together for a united and peaceful Nigeria.
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