The political landscape in Nigeria is heating up as the 2027 elections draw closer, with endorsements and criticisms flying amidst shifting alliances and emerging rifts within parties. Several key events and statements have recently surfaced, signaling potential realignments and conflicts that could significantly shape the nation's political future.

PDP Youth Spokesperson Condemns Governor Eno's Endorsement of Tinubu

Dare Glintstone Akinniyi, the spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Youth Group, has strongly criticized Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for endorsing President Bola Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid. In an exclusive interview with Legit.ng, Akinniyi warned that this action could trigger a crisis reminiscent of the Nyesom Wike-led G-5 group, which undermined the PDP's presidential campaign in 2023. Akinniyi emphasized that public support from PDP governors for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu could erode the PDP's integrity and alienate loyal members, especially the youth.

Akinniyi asserted that Governor Eno's endorsement could be the start of another G-5 scenario, similar to the one in 2022 where a group of PDP governors worked against the party's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, by supporting candidates from the Labour Party (LP) and the APC. He cautioned that such actions, driven by self-interest, could lead to widespread political apathy among the electorate in 2027, ultimately harming the PDP's prospects.

APC Leaders in Ekiti Endorse Tinubu and Oyebanji for Second Terms

In contrast, the Ekiti State Caucus of the APC has unanimously endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term, citing his fulfillment of the “Renewed Hope” mandate. The caucus also endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term. The endorsement took place at a meeting in Iyin Ekiti, attended by prominent APC leaders including former governors Niyi Adebayo and Kayode Fayemi.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the Senate spokesperson, moved the motion for Tinubu's endorsement, emphasizing the President's efforts to stabilize and rejuvenate the economy. He noted that Tinubu inherited a nation in crisis and is working diligently to address the issues. Adaramodu criticized the opposition, dismissing their rhetoric as mere “political theatrics.” Former Governor Adebayo echoed these sentiments, expressing full support for Governor Oyebanji's re-election, praising his work in the state.

Kayode Fayemi, however, cautioned against complacency, urging party members to revive progressive politics by taking ownership and funding the party. He stressed the importance of holding caucus meetings and ensuring the party's financial independence.

Northern Support for Tinubu's Re-election

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has declared that the North would unwaveringly support President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027. Speaking at the 2025 Nzeh Mada Festival, Governor Sule insisted that the North would not yield to those attempting to equate their personal interests with the region's majority. He urged Northern stakeholders to disregard politicians causing confusion due to their failed ambitions.

Governor Sule highlighted that supporting Tinubu's re-election would fulfill the promise made by the region's leaders before the 2023 elections. He recalled that some older governors had touted Tinubu as the best candidate to transform Nigeria, similar to his success in Lagos. He acknowledged that some of those same individuals are now criticizing Tinubu because they couldn't get what they were looking for.

Presidency Responds to Criticism from Labour Party

The Presidency has dismissed claims made by Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party's vice-presidential candidate in 2023, who suggested that President Tinubu should not seek re-election. Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, countered Baba-Ahmed's remarks, asserting that Tinubu would win comfortably in 2027 based on his performance.

Dare described Baba-Ahmed's arguments as flawed and devoid of reason. He criticized Baba-Ahmed for ignoring President Tinubu's track record and ongoing reforms, choosing instead to focus on electoral hypotheticals. Dare cited endorsements of the President’s economic reforms by international institutions as proof of progress. He also dismissed the Labour Party's claims that Vice President Shettima was denied access to the presidential villa.

Labour Party Faction Disowns Baba-Ahmed's Statement

A faction of the Labour Party has distanced itself from Baba-Ahmed’s description of the Tinubu government as ‘questionably constitutional.’ National Publicity Secretary of the faction, Dr. Arabambi Abayomi, said the party viewed the comment as undemocratic and capable of inciting Nigerians against the government.

Implications for 2027

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, these recent events highlight the complex dynamics at play. Endorsements from within the APC indicate strong support for President Tinubu's re-election bid, while criticisms from opposition figures and internal party conflicts suggest potential challenges ahead. The actions and statements of key political figures will continue to shape the narrative as the nation prepares for the next electoral cycle.