Peter Obi May Struggle to Break Into Northern Votes — Farooq Kperogi

Nigerian-American scholar and political commentator, Farooq Kperogi, has said that Peter Obi may face major challenges expanding his political influence in Northern Nigeria ahead of future elections.

Speaking during an interview aired on MIC ON PODCAST on Saturday, May 23, 2026, Kperogi analysed the evolving voting patterns across Nigeria and argued that Obi’s political strength remains largely concentrated in the South-East region.

According to him, while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is expected to retain strong support across the North, he could encounter greater difficulty building the same level of acceptance in Southern Nigeria.

Kperogi stated that the South-East still makes up a disproportionate share of Peter Obi’s political base, adding that this could limit the former Anambra governor’s ability to emerge victorious in a nationwide presidential contest.

In his assessment, Obi would need to significantly increase his acceptance and political penetration in Northern Nigeria to become a stronger national contender.

“Peter Obi, give the South-East to him, but that is it; he is never going to make inroads in North to win an election,” Kperogi stated during the interview.

The political analyst’s comments come amid increasing debates over regional voting patterns, coalition politics and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Peter Obi, who recorded strong performances in several Southern states during the 2023 presidential election, continues to enjoy massive support among young voters and urban populations. However, political observers say the battle for Northern votes is likely to remain a decisive factor in determining the outcome of future presidential elections in Nigeria.

— News House Political Desk