From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
A chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and National Coordinator of Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ) supporters group, Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje has dismissed ongoing coalition of opposition political parties against 2027 general elections, saying it is too personal, not for the interest and unity of the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, Alawuje advised such politicians to be patriotic and place national interest above personal or political gain irrespective of alleged unfair treatment from any political quarter, and remain focused on one goal of national unity, love, and harmony.
According to the statement, “This is not about personal disappointment; rather, it is about the broader picture—about what Nigeria is becoming in the face of deepening political divisions, tribal sentiments, and religious bias. Many Nigerians are becoming increasingly frustrated with our current political landscape, especially the rise of coalition politics and what seems like a strategic exclusion of certain regional leaders.
“It is no secret that coalition arrangements today appear to be designed more for the satisfaction of political elite than for the unity of the nation. This wasn’t always the case. Even under past administrations where there were imbalances, the divide was not as glaring or intentional as it appears now.
“Sadly, our people have developed a disturbing habit of always “cutting off the head to cure a headache.” Instead of applying wisdom and patience, we often resort to destructive and divisive tactics. This approach will never get us the Nigeria we desire.
“Let me be clear: the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu that I know will not allow a repeat of what happened to former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 to happen to him in 2027. Those of us who have fought to secure Nigeria’s unity and defended her honour across the globe will not sit quietly and watch desperate politicians push the country toward unnecessary crisis.
“The current style of coalition-building is rooted in personal ambition, not patriotism. These alliances, driven by selfish gains, risk undermining the essence of national unity.
“There is a growing perception of unfairness in power distribution and political representation, particularly against the southern regions. Such imbalance only deepens existing grievances.
“When our leaders fail to offer inclusive governance, they inadvertently validate the grievances of agitators like Sunday Igboho and Nnamdi Kanu. Our failure to run a balanced and fair system is fueling their support base.
“Nigerians must understand that every error, every misstep by the current administration, is not a reason to ignite ethnic or religious chaos. If there is a flaw in the system, let us sit down as a people to correct it. Violence and division have never brought progress. It is only through dialogue, empathy, and inclusiveness that we can build a nation that works for everyone.
“As someone who served in the Nigerian Army, not in the Yoruba Army or a religious battalion, I was trained to serve the nation—not my ethnic group, not my religion. That training shaped me into who I am today: a patriot who places national interest above personal or political gain. Despite unfair treatment from the political party I have served with unwavering strength and resilience, I remain focused on one goal—national unity, love, and harmony.
“Ultimately, my message is simple: we must change the way we think. We must evolve beyond tribal politics and regional favoritism. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and it is only by embracing unity, justice, and fairness that we can truly achieve greatness”.
The APC chieftain also commended former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) for his confession over June 12 Presidential election annulment.
“I must commend the former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, for his recent remarks and renewed commitment to the unity of Nigeria.
“While he may have made some critical errors during his time in power—especially the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election—his current reflections and sincere concern for Nigeria’s cohesion deserve recognition.
“His experience has humbled him, and his public statements now suggest an ongoing search for national healing and forgiveness”. The statement added.