ABUJA – A brewing political storm has hit the nation’s capital following claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not interested in seeking a second term in 2027, despite an aggressive push by his “political enforcers” to clear the field of opposition.
The narrative emerged as critics and opposition figures alleged that a “cabal” within the administration, fearful of losing relevance, has resorted to harassing current and former governors to either join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or suspend their political activities until after the next general election.
A President Focused on Legacy?
Sources close to the Presidency suggest that President Tinubu’s primary focus remains on his economic reforms rather than the 2027 ballot. On April 1, 2026, Special Adviser Sunday Dare reiterated that the President is preoccupied with delivering the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
However, this stands in stark contrast to the actions of high-ranking allies. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and APC National Chairman have already publicly committed to a 2027 re-election campaign, with APC National Chairman insisting that the President must complete an eight-year tenure before power returns to the North.
Allegations of “Lawlessness and Intimidation”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been at the forefront of these allegations, labeling the tactics used against them as “the doctrine of lawlessness.” Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, accused the administration of “weaponizing” the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to destabilize opposition leadership.
“These are the actions of cowards who know they have lost the 2027 elections,” a source within the opposition coalition stated. “They are intimidating leaders to join an ‘unholy alliance’ while preparing their own homes in exile for when the tide finally turns.”
Mass Defections in the North
The pressure cooker of 2027 politics has already triggered a seismic shift in Jigawa State. On March 31, 2026, a mass resignation rocked the Jigawa APC as loyalists of former Governor and current Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, dumped the party.
The defectors cited “injustice and institutional manipulation” by INEC against the ADC as their reason for leaving, signaling a growing rebellion within the ruling party’s own ranks against the perceived “strong-arm” tactics of the President’s inner circle.
The “Exile” Narrative
Perhaps most damaging are the claims that key figures within the administration, anticipating a defeat in 2027, have already secured offshore residencies. This has led to accusations that they are governing with “impunity,” knowing they have an exit strategy if their attempts to force a “one-party state” fail.
As the political atmosphere becomes increasingly toxic, Nigerians are left questioning whether the 2027 campaign is a reflection of the President’s will or the desperate maneuvers of a political class fighting for its survival.
