Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, a respected elder statesman, is very sure that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be hard to beat in the 2027 presidential election.

In a talk with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Sunday, Yakasai said Tinubu is still the most powerful person in Nigerian politics because he has a large group of supporters and the opposition is weak and divided.

“Right now, I don’t see anyone who has the organization, reach, or strength to seriously challenge Tinubu,” Yakasai said.

He mentioned that Tinubu’s power comes from being the current president, having support from ministers and governors, and even some people from the opposition side.

“Tinubu controls most parts of the political system. Many governors, his ministers, and even some opposition leaders support him. This kind of power cannot be ignored,” he explained.

Yakasai also said that reports about northern political groups choosing a candidate for 2027 are just personal opinions and not official.

“As far as I know, neither the Arewa Consultative Forum nor the Northern Elders Forum has officially picked any candidate. The North has not made a joint decision,” he said clearly.

He added that the problems inside the opposition parties are helping Tinubu’s chances to win again.

When asked about how Tinubu’s government is doing, Yakasai did not give a clear answer but said leaders need to care more about the country than their own goals.

“Our leaders must begin to put Nigeria first,” he said.

“We have been divided for too long by ethnic and religious differences. It is time to focus on ideas and programs that bring us together and help Nigeria grow.”

Looking back at his life, Yakasai—who will turn 100 years old this December—said his long life is because of God’s blessing and good family genes. He also shared that his parents lived very long lives.

“I am lucky to have over 80 children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It’s all thanks to God,” he said with a smile.