Tanko Yakasai at 100: Why Nigeria Can’t Return to Regionalism, 2027 Elections & Democracy

Elder statesman and former Presidential Liaison Officer in the Second Republic, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, who will turn 100 on December 5, 2025, has ruled out the possibility of Nigeria reverting to a regional system of government, insisting that the country must move forward and embrace democratic continuity.

Speaking in an interview ahead of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Yakasai credited his longevity to divine grace, recalling that his father lived past 105 and his mother beyond 90. “It has been purely by God’s grace,” he said. “Very few of my mates have been lucky to live this long and in good health.”

On Nigeria’s democratic journey, he praised the current 24 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, saying it is a milestone after decades of military interference. “The fact that we have remained as a single nation is worthy of celebration,” he said.

Responding to calls for a return to regionalism, Yakasai dismissed the idea:

“I don’t think regional government is possible again in Nigeria. We tried it in the past and we all know how it ended. The country has moved on since then so we can’t go back.”

He defended democracy as the best option for Nigeria despite its imperfections. “Yes, there are challenges, but which human system is perfect? Even America is still adjusting after 200 years,” he noted.

On whether the North can ever speak with one voice politically, Yakasai said it was unrealistic. “We are more than half of the population. You can’t put this number of people together and think they will think alike. Differences are natural,” he stressed.

The centenarian also emphasized the importance of continuity in governance, saying that cutting short any administration breeds instability. “For any country to enjoy progress, there should be stability in the management of its affairs,” he argued.

Addressing insecurity, he said state and local governments must do more, especially by working with citizens and traditional institutions to provide intelligence. “The federal government alone cannot do this,” he warned.

On zoning, Yakasai maintained that it remains useful for inclusivity. “It was designed to give every part of the country a sense of belonging. I hope it becomes a permanent feature,” he said.

Asked about 2027, Yakasai suggested President Bola Tinubu remains the strongest candidate due to incumbency, party control, and opposition disarray. “It is difficult, not impossible, to defeat an incumbent in Nigeria,” he said.

He also cautioned politicians against defecting for personal gain, urging them to embrace ideology and national development. “We must begin to see politics as a means to an end and not an end in itself,” Yakasai advised.