North now misses Jonathan’s era, slams Tinubu’s rule

DDM News

Umar Sani, a former presidential media aide, has offered a critical perspective on Nigeria’s current political and economic climate.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), he made these remarks during an interview shared by Arise News on YouTube.

Sani served as the Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former Vice President Namadi Sambo under the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.

In his recent statements, Sani said many Nigerians, especially in the northern region, now look back at Jonathan’s presidency as a better time.

He noted that the public is beginning to see the Jonathan era as a period of relative economic stability.

He stated that “the North now believes that during Jonathan it was a period of milk and honey.”

Sani supported this by highlighting how affordable basic items were during Jonathan’s presidency.

He cited the price of rice under Jonathan as an example, which reportedly sold for between ₦7,000 and ₦8,000 per bag.

He contrasted this with the current economic reality under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where prices have drastically increased.

Many Nigerians now face harsh economic conditions, struggling to meet daily needs.

Inflation has spiked, the naira has weakened significantly, and food items are becoming unaffordable.

The Tinubu administration, which began in May 2023, has faced criticism for the removal of fuel subsidies and floating of the naira.

These policies were intended to stabilize the economy but have so far led to higher costs of living.

Sani pointed out that these conditions have left many citizens disillusioned and nostalgic for what they now view as a more prosperous past.

He emphasized that political conversations across the North have begun to center around these reflections.

According to him, this shift in sentiment is influencing early preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Sani noted that former President Muhammadu Buhari still commands political respect in the region.

Despite being retired, Buhari’s move to Kaduna has allowed him to remain relevant in political discussions.

Sani added that both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition are seeking Buhari’s attention and possible endorsement.

However, he also remarked that Buhari’s famed “12 million votes” from previous elections cannot simply be passed on to another candidate.

Yet, Buhari’s approval still holds symbolic and strategic value for any campaign.

Sani observed that the opposition is working to build a united front against President Tinubu’s possible re-election bid.

He identified former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as a key political figure in the emerging coalition.

Atiku, who ran for president several times, continues to be seen as a rallying point within the opposition.

However, Sani disclosed that Atiku has not confirmed whether he will run again in 2027.

This opens the door for alternative candidates to gain ground and possibly step into the spotlight.

Among those being discussed is former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathan, having served only one full term, is still eligible to run for president.

His southern origin and perceived calm leadership style make him a potentially unifying figure.

Sani suggested that Jonathan’s return could change the entire election landscape.

Many in the North are now open to the idea of his comeback, influenced by the difficult economic times they face today.

The political realignment ahead of 2027 is gaining momentum, shaped largely by dissatisfaction with the current administration.

Nigerians, weary of hardship, are reevaluating past leaders and looking for a return to stability.

Sani’s comments underscore a growing national debate: whether the future lies with a new face or the return of an old one.

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