Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu’s plan to hold a meeting with traditional rulers from Southern Nigeria has spiked controversy, with many questioning the sincerity of his intentions. According to sources, the meeting aims to convince traditional rulers to support and vote for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
The development comes amid growing concerns about the perceived imbalance in appointments and allocations to the South-South and Southeast regions. A breakdown of substantive ministerial positions by region reveals a stark disparity:
– Southwest:15 positions, including key ministries such as Petroleum, Interior, Education, Communication, Trade and Investment, Solid Minerals, Blue Economy, Finance, Youth Development, Power, Customs, DG FAAN, Army, IGP, and Immigration
– South-South:3 positions, including Aviation, FCT, and Regional Development
– Southeast: 2 positions, including Works and Science and Technology
Critics argue that this imbalance undermines the notion of Southern solidarity and raises questions about Tinubu’s commitment to regional representation. Despite this, some groups in the Southeast have expressed support for Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing his recent initiatives, such as the $3 billion Eastern Rail Line project and the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
Support from Southeast Groups
The South East Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA) has pledged to galvanize grassroots support for Tinubu’s re-election, with a nationwide tour planned across the 95 local government areas and 2,344 wards in the Southeast. SERHA National Coordinator, Hon. Belusochukwu Enwere, praised Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting major federal initiatives benefiting the region ¹ ².
Similarly, the South East Progressive Ambassadors (SEPA) has called on young professionals and progressive ambassadors to join President Tinubu’s socio-political movement for his re-election. SEPA Convener, Mr. John CDO Ikeotuonye, emphasized the need for the Southeast to support Tinubu, citing his establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and key appointments ³.
Tinubu’s Regional Integration Efforts
Meanwhile, President Tinubu has been championing regional integration and economic cooperation in West Africa. At the 2025 West Africa Economic Summit, he urged regional leaders to prioritize cross-border projects, improve infrastructure, and implement forward-thinking policies to unlock the region’s vast economic potential ⁴.
As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Tinubu’s meeting with traditional rulers will likely be seen as a strategic move to build support and consolidate his position. However, the perceived imbalance in appointments and allocations may pose a challenge to his efforts to rally Southern solidarity behind his re-election bid.
