As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, a bold and strategic political movement led by Ibrahim Shekarau, a former governor of Kano State, is making waves across the nation.
Shekarau, a key figure in the League of Northern Democrats (LND), is spearheading efforts to unite northern elites with influential southern political heavyweights to create a powerful national coalition.
Backed by prominent figures such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Head of State Yakubu Gowon, the initiative is gaining traction as a credible alternative to the current political structure.
Sources reveal that Shekarau’s efforts are focused on building an inclusive, broad-based alliance that transcends regional and ethnic divides. This initiative involves consultations with political leaders from the South-West, South-East, and South-South regions.
According to Umar Ardo, the LND’s convener, the group intends to transform into a national political platform under a new name, the League of National Democrats (LND), emphasizing meritocracy, accountability, and integrity.
“This new political platform seeks to provide a credible alternative by institutionalizing meritocracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring the emergence of leaders with proven competence and integrity,” Ardo stated during a press briefing on January 5.
Obasanjo and Gowon have reportedly played significant advisory roles in shaping the vision of the LND. During a pivotal meeting in October 2024, Obasanjo hosted a 20-member LND delegation, led by Shekarau, at his penthouse in the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta.
Obasanjo emphasized the importance of a truly national platform, suggesting the group rebrand itself as the National League of Democrats. “It is high time we began working for the national interest. Yes, you have identified your group as the League of Northern Democrats, but how I wish you call your group National League of Democrats because where you come from should not be a problem,” he stated.
Gowon echoed similar sentiments, urging the group to focus on national inclusivity and unity. These endorsements from two respected elder statesmen underscore the potential significance of the LND’s mission.
In their quest for inclusivity, the LND has been actively engaging southern political leaders. Umar Sani, a former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo and a founding member of the LND, confirmed that Shekarau is leading discussions with influential figures from the southern regions. While the identities of these southern politicians remain undisclosed, the group’s efforts have reportedly gained substantial interest.
Sani stated, “We’re talking with some southern politicians, but I don’t know who they are. Shekarau and others are making the moves and doing the talking.
When we met Baba Obasanjo, he said the initiative should be made national. General Gowon also said it should be national, and other influential Nigerians gave similar advice.”
The LND is also considering suggestions from southern politicians to transform the movement into a full-fledged political party.
Ladan Salihu, the group’s spokesperson, confirmed that discussions are ongoing with southern leaders, including former governors, senators, and ministers. According to Salihu, the LND has received proactive outreach from southern political clusters, especially from the South-East.
“We’ve been contacted by notable politicians from the South, especially from the South-East, who indicated plans to form the League of Southern Democrats,” Salihu disclosed.
“Similarly, respected politicians from the South-West have shown interest in joining the LND if it becomes a national platform, or they may even form the League of Western Democrats.”
These interactions highlight the growing appeal of the LND’s vision across Nigeria’s political landscape.
The LND’s transformation into a national political platform represents a significant shift in Nigeria’s political dynamics. Salihu emphasised that the movement is grounded in action rather than rhetoric, with daily communications taking place between northern and southern leaders who share the vision of rescuing Nigeria.
“This is not just a rhetorical platform; it’s a serious movement based on real action,” he stated.
As consultations continue, the group remains unregistered as a political party, signaling that strategic planning and alliances are still in progress.
The LND’s emergence comes at a critical time, as political leaders across Nigeria strategize for the 2027 elections. With President Bola Tinubu’s administration facing mounting challenges, the push for a credible and inclusive political alternative is resonating with many Nigerians.
By bridging the gap between northern and southern political interests, the LND has the potential to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape. Whether this movement evolves into a dominant force or faces resistance from established political structures remains to be seen.
Ibrahim Shekarau’s efforts to build a North-South alliance signify a bold step toward national unity and political inclusivity. Backed by influential statesmen like Obasanjo and Gowon, the LND’s vision aligns with the growing demand for leaders who prioritize meritocracy, accountability, and competence.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the success of this movement could redefine the country’s political future, offering a beacon of hope for a united and progressive nation.
Whether the League of Northern Democrats transforms into a political powerhouse or a stepping stone for greater alliances, it has undeniably sparked a conversation about the need for genuine national leadership.