Renowned politician Buba Galadima has stated that the fastest route for any politician from Nigeria’s South East to become president is by first serving as vice president.
Speaking on Arise News on September 16 from 19:38, 2025, the influential New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) leader said the country’s political reality makes it difficult for a South Easterner to win the presidency outright without support from a sitting government.
Galadima made the remark while discussing alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections. He dismissed calls for strict zoning between the North and South, stressing that competence should matter more than region. According to him, Nigeria’s current political landscape requires strategic partnerships rather than ethnic calculations, and he believes this is where a vice-presidential slot can pave the way for the South East.
The NNPP chieftain also reflected on his long political career, saying he has witnessed similar transitions in the past. He maintained that while any Nigerian can aspire to lead, the path to power is often shaped by alliances and practical steps. He urged opposition figures, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi, to focus on building bridges that can guarantee a broader national appeal.
“The easiest way, when we forget about this chauvinism, for a South Easterner to become president is to first be vice president and be supported by a sitting government,” Galadima said during the interview. “I am not saying he cannot become president on his own, but the easiest way is as vice president. That is the political strategy that can work in the Nigeria of today.” Explore , More , News>>>
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