A former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has cautioned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against forming a political alliance with former Anambra State governor Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 presidential election, arguing that such a move could weaken support for the former vice president in Northern Nigeria.
Omokri made the remarks while reacting to comments by media personality and politician Dele Momodu during an interview on Channels Television’s programme Sunday Politics. Momodu had suggested that a joint ticket involving Atiku and Obi could defeat incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In his response, Omokri dismissed the suggestion, stating that the political dynamics of Northern Nigeria—particularly the influence of religion—make such a partnership difficult to sell to voters in the region.
According to him, Islam has played a central role in the history, culture and politics of Northern Nigeria for centuries, and any political arrangement perceived as hostile to the region’s religious sensitivities could face strong resistance.
Omokri also referenced past controversies involving Obi, including reactions to incidents of violence in different parts of the country, which he argued had shaped perceptions of the former Anambra governor among Northern communities.
He cited the killings of a pregnant woman, Harira Jubril, and her children in Anambra State, as well as the earlier death of former presidential aide Ahmed Gulak in Imo State, noting that the reactions of political leaders to such incidents often influence public sentiment in the North.
Omokri further recalled remarks made by Obi concerning the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), saying the comments had also generated criticism in parts of Northern Nigeria.
While stressing that he holds Atiku in high regard, Omokri warned that aligning with Obi could carry political risks,
particularly in Adamawa State, the former vice president’s home state.
He maintained that Northern voters have long memories when it comes to political and social issues, adding that leaders seeking national support must be mindful of Nigeria’s religious and ethnic sensitivities.
The remarks come amid early political discussions and speculation over potential alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
