Salihu Moh. Lukman, a founding chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former National Vice Chairman (Northwest) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has cautioned that unchecked personal ambitions among key opposition figures will secure an easy victory for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. 

Speaking during media appearances in Abuja, Lukman expressed deep frustration that opposition leaders—including figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi—are repeating the exact strategic missteps that fractured their ranks ahead of the 2023 polls. Despite nearly two years of discussions aimed at building a unified opposition coalition and a party capable of holding elected leaders accountable, ongoing fragmentation threatens to turn the upcoming electoral cycle into a predetermined coronation rather than a competitive race.

Core Concerns Regarding the Political Landscape

• Failure to Unite: Lukman lamented that opposition leaders have consistently prioritized individual presidential ambitions over the collective necessity of national rescue and personal sacrifice.

• Voter Apathy and Credibility: He warned that divided opposition parties will further erode public confidence in the electoral process, leading to increased voter apathy and vulnerability to manipulation.

• Economic Hardship: Criticizing the current administration, Lukman noted that the severe economic challenges, rising inflation, and high food prices resulting from recent reforms—such as the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate liberalization—demand a credible, united alternative, which the current opposition has failed to provide.

• Electoral Administration: Addressing the electoral umpire, Lukman stressed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must independently demonstrate neutrality through its actions on election day rather than relying on executive assurances. He also advocated for a demilitarized electoral process modeled after stable regional democracies like Ghana.

Recent Political Moves and Next Steps

Out of dissatisfaction with the trajectory of opposition politics, Lukman recently announced the suspension of his membership in the ADC to engage in broader, cross-party consultations. He emphasized that partisan affiliation alone cannot resolve the current political impasse.

Lukman concluded with a direct appeal to opposition leaders to put national interest above personal desires, urging them to return to the negotiation table and rally behind a single, competent presidential candidate capable of offering Nigerians a viable alternative in 2027.