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2027 Race Heats Up: Key Political Figures Rally Behind Tinubu

Published 1 day ago4 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
2027 Race Heats Up: Key Political Figures Rally Behind Tinubu

Political endorsements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 are gaining momentum across various regions and political strata in Nigeria, driven by arguments ranging from national unity and equity to economic progress and regional recognition. These endorsements highlight a concerted effort to consolidate support for the current administration and its policies.

A significant development saw the Southern Forum of former legislators, representing local, state, and federal levels across the 17 southern states, formally adopt President Bola Tinubu as their sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general election. This decision was articulated in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of their summit in Abeokuta, Ogun State, themed “National Unity: Bedrock for Nation Building.” The forum lauded President Tinubu’s innovative reforms, specifically pointing to the establishment of Regional Development Commissions, efforts towards local government autonomy, the students’ loan scheme, and the deregulation of electricity. Esteemed attendees at the summit included former Senate President Ken Nnamani, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Mrs. Patricia Etteh, former Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba, and Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State. The forum’s adoption was based on a principle of promoting equity, fairness, and national unity, affirming the South’s turn to complete its tenure of leadership and explicitly stating that President Tinubu should be the one to do so. Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Convener of the forum and Chief of Staff to the President, emphasized the need for Nigerians to support Tinubu’s second term to consolidate existing successes. He described President Tinubu as an exceptional leader making bold strides toward nation-building, citing impressive economic indicators such as a significant increase in foreign portfolio investment flows, which reached US$5.46 billion in Q1 2025 (a 67% rise). Furthermore, he noted Nigeria’s economy expanded by 4.6% year-on-year in Q4 2024, pushing annual growth to 3.4%—its fastest in a decade—and that the fiscal deficit narrowed sharply from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024 due to surging Federation revenues.

Similarly, political leaders from the Kwara South senatorial district publicly threw their weight behind President Tinubu’s second-term bid, citing the administration’s recognition of the district and the opportunities it has provided. At the Kwara South Leaders’ Roundtable in Oro, Irepodun Local Government, Deputy Senate Leader Senator Oyelola Ashiru affirmed the district’s alignment with President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighting federal appointments and attention. He stressed that this endorsement was driven by a vision for progress rather than mere politics, aiming for a greater Kwara South and a prosperous Nigeria. Key opinion moulders like Chief Abiodun Dada and Otunba Abiodun Ajiboye echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of unity for sustainable growth and development within the district, and acknowledging the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the unprecedented political patronage Kwara South has received, including positions like Deputy Senate Leader, Attorney-General of the Federation, and Group Managing Director of NNPCL. Former APC chairman in Kwara state, Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa, also commended the unified decision to endorse President Tinubu based on his track record.

Further demonstrating grassroots consolidation, former student leader and founder of OGS Foundation, Ogunwoye Gbemiga Samson (popularly known as Ogunsamson or OGS), formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency, Oyo State, accompanied by over 3,000 supporters. His declaration, held at IresaPupa, was described by observers as one of the largest political gatherings in the constituency recently. Ogunwoye, respected for his activism and humanitarian work, stated his decision followed extensive consultations and was rooted in his conviction that the APC provides the optimal platform for sustainable development and inclusive governance. He pledged to strengthen the party at the grassroots, mobilize support across Oyo and Nigeria, and extend efforts globally. Additionally, Ogunwoye advocated for greater youth participation in politics, emphasizing that their inclusion in elective and appointive positions would bolster the party and ensure continuity and innovation in governance. He applauded President Tinubu’s economic reforms as tough but necessary steps to reposition Nigeria’s economy, expressing confidence that Nigerians would soon see the full benefits. Ogunwoye pledged massive mobilization for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, assuring party faithful that his network would be deployed for overwhelming support for the APC. Party leaders, including Hon. Bode Akanni, hailed his defection as a significant victory and a political game-changer, acknowledging his popularity and grassroots appeal as crucial assets for the party.

Collectively, these endorsements and political realignments underscore a widespread movement aimed at supporting President Tinubu’s second term, emphasizing themes of national unity, economic reform, youth inclusion, and sustained progressive governance across Nigeria.

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