As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 presidential election, political debates are heating up. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, along with opposition figures Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, are at the center of the discussion.
While some believe the opposition can unite to defeat Tinubu, others argue that his political strength remains intact.
The 2023 elections showed that a divided opposition could not remove Tinubu from power. Now, political leaders are considering forming a united front for 2027.
Ibrahim Abdullahi, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), admitted that internal conflicts weakened their chances in 2023. He suggested that if Obi and Kwankwaso had remained in the PDP, the results might have been different.
There are ongoing talks about creating a strong coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, not everyone is convinced this will work.
Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju believes that even if the opposition unites, Tinubu’s influence and the current electoral system may still give him an advantage.
Some political voices are calling for an even broader opposition. Salihu Lukman, a former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West), wants key figures like Yemi Osinbajo, Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, and Nasir El-Rufai to join forces with the opposition.
He believes that setting aside personal ambitions and forming a strong political party is the best way to challenge the APC.
The APC remains optimistic about Tinubu’s chances in 2027. The party believes that his administration’s policies will strengthen public support.
Ahmed S. Aruwa, Kano APC’s Publicity Secretary, dismissed Atiku and Kwankwaso’s relevance, claiming that Kwankwaso is politically unstable and that Tinubu’s reforms are more impactful.
Political opinions about 2027 remain divided. Analyst Abdullahi Abba believes Atiku has a strong chance due to his political experience and wide network of supporters.
However, internal PDP conflicts could affect his chances. Other key figures like Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde might create divisions within the party.
Dr. Sa’id Dukawa, a political scientist, sees 2027 as a major political showdown, with cross-party alliances at an all-time high. He believes politicians are already making strategic moves, preparing for a decisive battle.
Nigerians are closely watching political developments, but many remain frustrated with the government’s handling of the economy, security, and corruption. Some believe that unless there are significant improvements, Tinubu might struggle to secure re-election.
Umar Ibrahim Umar, Executive Director of War Against Injustice, argues that Tinubu’s economic reforms have caused more hardship than relief. Many citizens are struggling with high costs of living, which could influence their voting decisions.
Northern voters remain undecided about 2027. Some residents, including Keke Napep riders in Kano, expressed frustration over rising petrol prices and economic difficulties.
Many are struggling to afford basic needs and are unsure if they will even participate in the election.
Despite APC’s efforts to promote its achievements, skepticism remains high. Many voters are considering alternatives from the PDP, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), or Labour Party (LP).
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 election, political strategies, alliances, and public sentiment will shape the race.
The coming years will be filled with intense political activity as parties prepare for a decisive contest. The big question remains: Will Tinubu maintain his hold on power, or will the opposition finally unite to challenge him successfully?
