Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, has unequivocally stated that President Bola Tinubu faces an insurmountable challenge in securing re-election in the 2027 presidential polls. Abaribe, a prominent opposition figure, asserted that the current administration’s perceived failures, particularly the widespread economic hardship gripping Nigerians, have solidified public resolve against a second term for the incumbent president. He dismissed suggestions of President Tinubu’s unbroken electoral record, predicting a decisive defeat based on the prevailing national sentiment.

Speaking on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” Senator Abaribe articulated his conviction, stating, “Everybody loses elections, and you will see when the time comes.” He emphasized that the severe economic conditions and the populace’s determination would be key factors in preventing President Tinubu’s return to office. The lawmaker’s remarks underscore a growing discontent among certain political circles regarding the direction of the country under the current leadership.

Abaribe further alleged that President Tinubu did not genuinely win the 2023 presidential election, a claim he reiterated during the interview. While acknowledging the declaration of Tinubu as the winner, Abaribe indicated that the opposition had accepted the outcome then, but vowed a more robust and prepared challenge in the forthcoming election cycle. He suggested that the next election would not be decided by early morning announcements but by a more mobilized electorate.

The senator painted a bleak picture of the nation’s state, contending that Nigeria’s economy has “collapsed” under President Tinubu’s watch, with persistent insecurity issues remaining unresolved. He questioned the basis upon which the President would garner sufficient votes for re-election in 2027, given these perceived systemic failures. This critique highlights significant concerns within opposition ranks regarding governance and national stability.

Addressing the trend of opposition leaders defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abaribe firmly pledged never to join the party, declaring himself the “very, very last one” to do so. He posited that such defections, rather than strengthening the APC, would paradoxically sow seeds of internal discord and exacerbate leadership tussles within the party. This stance contrasts sharply with the actions of some of his political contemporaries.

Abaribe elaborated on his “simple theory” regarding defections, suggesting they benefit the opposition by consolidating internal problems within the APC. He described the ruling party as a “giant with feet of clay,” implying a fundamental weakness that the opposition intends to exploit. The lawmaker asserted that these internal divisions would be targeted during the next election, potentially leading to the APC’s collapse.

Reaffirming his commitment to the opposition coalition, Senator Abaribe confirmed a consensus among opposition leaders to unite and strategically dislodge the APC from power. This alliance aims to present a formidable front against the incumbent government in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. The unified approach seeks to capitalize on perceived public dissatisfaction.

The coalition has reportedly adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform for the 2027 elections. However, Abaribe refuted claims that this move is a deliberate strategy to solely enthrone former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, thereby compelling all opposition members to support him. He clarified that the party has yet to release its guidelines and other crucial arrangements for the upcoming electoral contest.

Abaribe’s outspoken criticisms and predictions come amidst a charged political atmosphere in Nigeria, where discussions about the next general election are already gaining momentum. His comments reflect a determined opposition ready to challenge the status quo, leveraging public sentiment on economic hardship and governance issues. The senator’s remarks set a combative tone for the political discourse ahead.

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Keywords: Enyinnaya Abaribe, Bola Tinubu 2027 election, Nigerian presidential election, Opposition coalition Nigeria, APC defections, Economic hardship Nigeria, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nigeria politics 2027