Christian Elders Urge Tinubu Not to Seek Re-election, Cite Disappointing Performance

The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) has called on President Bola Tinubu not to seek re-election in 2027, describing his administration’s performance as disappointing and urging him to dedicate the remainder of his tenure to restructuring Nigeria.

The position was contained in a communiqué dated July 9 and signed by the forum’s National Chairman, Samuel Gani.

According to the elders, the Federal Government has failed to deliver satisfactory results in critical areas such as security, economic development and the welfare of Nigerians.

The forum said the direction of the current administration has created uncertainty rather than optimism, insisting that the President should focus on laying the foundation for lasting national reforms instead of pursuing another term in office.

“The direction in which the Tinubu presidency is leading the nation offers increasing apprehension rather than hope,” the communiqué stated.

The group urged the President to prioritise constitutional restructuring and facilitate the emergence of a new constitution that would strengthen national unity and improve governance.

The Christian elders also renewed their criticism of the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket adopted during the 2023 election, describing it as insensitive at a time when insecurity and violence continue to affect many parts of the country.

According to the forum, Christians remain among the major victims of attacks by terrorists and other criminal groups, making inclusive leadership more important than ever.

The NCEF further cautioned the judiciary to remain impartial in handling election-related disputes, warning that Nigeria is at a critical stage where public confidence in democratic institutions must not be undermined.

It also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to preserve its independence by ensuring credible, transparent and peaceful elections.

On power rotation, the forum maintained that although it is not a constitutional requirement, the informal north-south arrangement remains essential for national balance and political stability.

It therefore appealed to political stakeholders to support a southern presidential candidate in 2027 to complete what it described as the South’s remaining four-year turn.

The elders also called for an independent investigation into the controversy surrounding the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council, describing the matter as damaging to public confidence.

The forum concluded by warning that Nigerians enduring prolonged economic hardship expect meaningful improvements, stressing that citizens’ patience should not be taken for granted.