Tinubu still holds advantage, APC chieftain fires back at opposition

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, has declared that President Bola Tinubu remains Nigeria’s most formidable political strategist, insisting that opposition figures lack the structure and influence needed to challenge him ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement, Alawuje said that while Tinubu “may not be perfect”, the president possesses an unmatched understanding of power, loyalty, political survival and long-term strategy.

According to him, many opposition politicians rely heavily on “rhetoric and emotional propaganda”, while Tinubu spent years building enduring political structures and alliances across the country.

“Politics is not won through social media outrage, bitterness or emotional manipulation,” he stated. “Politics is about structure, loyalty, influence, strategic patience and results.”

The APC stalwart challenged key opposition figures to prove their political dominance in their home states before seeking national leadership.

He questioned the political strength of Peter Obi in Anambra State despite serving two terms as governor, while also casting doubt on the influence of Atiku Abubakar in Adamawa politics.

Alawuje further referenced Rotimi Amaechi, arguing that the political situation in Rivers State raises questions about the durability of his grassroots structure.

The APC chieftain maintained that Tinubu’s political relevance has remained intact years after leaving office as governor of Lagos State, noting that many of his loyalists and political networks still wield influence nationwide.

“Very few politicians in Nigeria’s history can leave office and still command this level of national relevance years later,” he said.

He added that critics who chant “Tinubu Must Go” have yet to demonstrate unquestionable political authority within their own environments.

Alawuje argued that the 2027 presidential election would ultimately be decided by “political reality” rather than anger, propaganda or emotional speeches, insisting that the current political landscape still favours President Tinubu.