Doyin Okupe, the former director-general of the Obi/Datti presidential campaign, has stated that President Bola Tinubu is likely to serve two terms, totaling eight years, as Nigeria’s president.
During an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Okupe explained that there is an understanding of a rotational presidency, with the northern region holding office for eight years, followed by the southern region for another eight.
He pointed out that former President Muhammadu Buhari completed his eight-year term, and Tinubu could similarly serve two terms if he chooses to pursue re-election. Okupe noted that if Tinubu effectively addresses the country’s current issues, he could potentially win re-election in 2027.
According to Okupe, Tinubu is performing exceptionally well and is likely to achieve even greater success in his administration. He emphasized that the president requires support from the Nigerian populace rather than criticism to navigate through the challenges facing the country.
He underscored the importance of collective effort during these difficult times, asserting that the nation could face dire consequences without such efforts. Okupe expressed strong confidence that, with the necessary support from citizens, Tinubu could restore the country to a more stable and prosperous state.
This assertion, he stated, should be taken seriously as it reflects a larger understanding of political dynamics in Nigeria. “Nigerians will decide so. I am sure. Nigerians are reasonable, sensible people, not demanding too much from their leaders. If Bola Tinubu resolves this fuel crisis and this food crisis between now and that time, you’ll see that people will go on the streets and say it’s Bola or nobody,” Okupe stated.
He further noted, “Bola Tinubu is not a fool. He knows if he does not do this well between now and 2027, he will not have a chance. In this country, we have an agreement that the north will do eight years and the south will do eight years.”
Okupe also compared the public perception of past leaders, saying, “Buhari did not do well. We were not crazy. We did not fight; we didn’t raise our voice. Bola Tinubu is doing well; he will do eight years if God blesses his life and he wants to do so,” the politician noted, reinforcing his belief in Tinubu’s potential to succeed in his presidency.