Former Speaker Yakubu Dogara reacts to vice presidential speculation, saying leadership is not for perfect people and urging religious balance ahead of 2027
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has reacted to growing speculations linking him to a possible vice-presidential slot ahead of the 2027 general election, stressing that leadership and nation-building are not the preserve of perfect individuals.
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Dogara spoke on Sunday during an interview on Channels Television, where he was asked about reports suggesting he could emerge as a running mate to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amid ongoing debates within the All Progressives Congress (APC) over its 2027 ticket.
The former lawmaker said he does not consider himself flawless, noting that throughout history, societies have been built by ordinary people with imperfections who were guided by purpose and grace.
“I don’t think I’m ever prepared for anything,” Dogara said. “What I know is that everything I am is by the grace of God. I am not perfect.”
Dogara, who served as Speaker between 2015 and 2019, said his time as the fourth-highest public office holder in Nigeria exposed him to critical aspects of governance and leadership that shaped his understanding of national responsibility.
“I have served as Speaker of the House of Representatives in a country of over 200 million people,” he said. “There are certain things I know and certain responsibilities I have carried that many may never encounter.”
Beyond the speculation, Dogara weighed in on the broader debate around rotational presidency and religious representation ahead of the 2027 polls.
He argued that discussions on power rotation should extend beyond regional considerations to include religious balance, given Nigeria’s diversity.
“If you have a Muslim, whether from the North or South, let that person represent the Muslim community,” he said.
“If you have a Christian, wherever the person comes from, let them represent the Christian faith. That way, you achieve balance.”
Dogara said decisions around party tickets and running mates should be guided by justice, fairness and public opinion rather than fear, warning that religious divisions could undermine national cohesion, particularly in the North.
The former Speaker also observed that sitting presidents in Nigeria rarely lose their party primaries, suggesting that President Tinubu is likely to secure the APC presidential ticket.
However, he urged continued consultation and sensitivity to public sentiment.
“Ultimately, whatever decision the President takes is his,” Dogara said. “But if there is an overwhelming call for balance, I believe, as a democrat, he will listen.”
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Dogara concluded by warning that any attempt to divide the North along religious lines would be counterproductive, stressing that unity remains essential as political alignments intensify ahead of 2027.
