The hottest topic of discussion among political pundits in Nigeria seems to be the emergence of a power bloc, which is now being referred to as the "fourth force." The "fourth force" is a term now being used to refer to younger political leaders from the north such as Bukola Saraki, Danjuma Goje, and Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu. Other observers include Gabriel Suswam, Nasir El-Rufai, and Nuhu Ribadu in the list.

What has emerged over the past few weeks is that, while these younger political leaders are not out for a confrontation with the older generation of Northern Leaders (Solomon Lar, IBB, Atiku, Olusola Saraki etc) they are brimming with self confidence and do not believe that they have to look to their predecessors for direction. This was clearly illustrated, when the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) had to make a presentation to the NGF (Northern Governors Forum) seeking for support for zoning earlier in the year.

In the run-up to 2011, the fourth force will be a political force that will be impossible to ignore even if it does not produce a presidential candidate from its ranks.