Nigerian political discourse is currently dominated by critical examinations of party structures, governance efficacy, electoral integrity, and constitutional reform. These discussions often highlight the deep-seated challenges facing the nation's democratic processes.

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) has experienced a significant decline since its loss in the 2015 presidential election to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This 'free fall' has been particularly evident in the Southeast, where members reportedly suffered substantial losses due to the party's perceived disrespect and insensitivity to regional demands. The party's extended period in power before 2015, under a weak electoral system, led to lethargy and a lack of preparedness for an opposition role, contributing to a continuous erosion of its internal cohesion and disciplinary machinery. Despite concerns, fears of Nigeria sliding into a one-party state are largely dismissed as unwarranted. The nation's vast size, heterogeneity, multi-religious, and multi-ethnic composition inherently resists such a system, with its founding fathers having negotiated independence on the basis of multi-party democracy. Any attempt to impose a one-party state is seen as a recipe for unimaginable anarchy.

A core issue in Nigerian politics is the inability of political parties and elected leaders to fulfill promises and maintain accountability. This problem is deeply rooted in the "obnoxious" 1999 constitution and a weak electoral system that effectively denies citizens their inalienable sovereignty to freely recruit and hold leaders accountable. Attempts by the Federal Government and National Assembly to address these defects have been criticized as half-hearted and insincere. The possibility of political parties returning to an era of ideological operation, rather than personal or regional interests, is contingent on enabling laws and regulations. These reforms should not restrain parties in formulating manifestos or mandate national spread as a condition for registration, allowing for area-specific ideological inclinations akin to the first republic parties like NPC, NEPU, and UMBC.

The incumbent APC federal government faces widespread public discontent, with the overwhelming majority of Nigerians reportedly reeling under the burden of its economic and social policies. The perceived mismanagement of the country's diversity has deepened ethnic and religious consciousness, fostering a general sense of alienation among certain sections of the populace. Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, the political landscape is seen as highly fluid. Peter Obi, the former Labour Party Presidential Candidate in 2023, is believed to be actively marketing himself domestically and internationally, with expectations that he will build on his previous momentum. However, he is advised to clarify his political party affiliation without delay, especially given the ongoing wave of defections. The Tinubu administration is perceived as unpopular, with many of the celebrated defections coming from the South, while the North's strategic movements are yet to unfold. The ADC is also presented as a potential platform, and Peter Obi is seen as a force that could surprise both major parties.

Electoral reforms and constitutional amendments are deemed crucial for Nigeria's future. The new INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, is given the benefit of the doubt, with his initial statements offering reassurance for credible and transparent elections. Critical constitutional amendments include devolution of power, mandatory use of technology in elections, a reviewed revenue allocation formula to grant sub-nationals greater resources, and enhanced citizenship rights and enforcement, including state and community policing. There is confidence that the National Assembly may address the most critical of these, especially making electronic transmission of results mandatory and shifting the onus of proof to INEC. While a holistic constitutional change is preferred, acknowledging the 1999 constitution's shortcomings, the current government is not disposed to such comprehensive reform, making piecemeal amendments the more likely path forward until leaders truly chosen by Nigerians emerge.

Finally, the detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu draws strong condemnation. The Tinubu administration's perceived insensitivity to widespread appeals for his release and other prisoners of conscience is highlighted. Many Igbo leaders emphasize that Kanu's incarceration symbolizes the imprisonment of the Igbo people, referencing historical precedents of presidential prerogative of nolle prosequi as a viable path for his release, thus questioning the continuation of judicial rigmarole.