Former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Bafarawa, has made the restoration of peace in northern Nigeria a condition for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, saying he would campaign for the president if his administration ends the region’s security crisis.

Bafarawa said the priority should be to make it safe for residents to return to their farms, markets and schools without fear of attacks by armed groups.

Speaking in an interview with RFI Hausa, the former governor said his position was driven by the need for tangible improvements in security rather than financial inducements or political considerations.

He maintained that the Federal Government had the authority and resources to make a significant difference to the situation, suggesting that even one month could be enough for Tinubu to demonstrate a clear change in the security landscape.

Bafarawa expressed concern over the impact of persistent violence on rural livelihoods, children’s education and communities forced to abandon their homes.

He said the return of normal life to affected areas should be the benchmark for assessing the government’s response to insecurity, rather than political promises.

Although he is not a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bafarawa said he would be willing to mobilise support for Tinubu if the president delivered lasting peace in the North.

His position places security outcomes at the centre of his proposed support for the president ahead of the 2027 general election.

The former governor also urged northern political leaders to put aside their differences and work collectively towards resolving the crisis, which continues to affect the safety and economic activities of many communities.

Bafarawa’s declaration comes as insecurity remains a major concern in parts of northern Nigeria, where attacks and displacement have disrupted farming, education, trade and other essential activities.