The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed remorse over the region’s decision to vote for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election. Tinubu, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), garnered the highest number of votes from the region among the three leading candidates.
Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the forum’s spokesman, revealed in an interview with Guardian on Tuesday that moving forward, the region will prioritize unity and consensus in choosing a presidential candidate.
Regarding Peter Obi’s recent visits and donations to communities in northern states, Suleiman emphasized the region’s shift towards favoring a candidate perceived as more inclusive, less controversial, and more aligned with the interests of all regions of the country.
“The North made a mistake in voting Bola Tinubu to the presidency in 2023, and it is unlikely that they will repeat the same error in the future,” Suleiman stated.
He further elaborated, “They have learned from their past misstep and will strive to select a candidate who can unite the country and govern in the best interests of all Nigerians. Moving forward, the North will be more cautious in selecting a candidate for the presidency. They will prioritize someone who is seen as more inclusive, less controversial, and more aligned with the interests of all regions of the country. The mistake of supporting Tinubu in 2023 has taught them the importance of unity and consensus in selecting a candidate for the highest office in the land.”
