Former Abia State Governor and senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu will secure re-election in 2027, insisting that opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Goodluck Jonathan cannot unseat him.
Kalu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made this known during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he assessed the political landscape ahead of the next general elections.
He argued that President Tinubu has demonstrated leadership capacity and economic reform efforts that would earn him the trust of Nigerians once again. According to Kalu, the performance of the current administration, particularly in stabilising key sectors, positions the president as the most viable candidate going into the 2027 polls.
The senator dismissed speculation about a possible resurgence of the opposition, maintaining that no major contender currently has the political structure, public appeal, or strategic momentum to challenge the incumbent.
Opposition Faces Weak Prospects Ahead Of 2027
Kalu described the idea of Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, or former President Goodluck Jonathan defeating Tinubu as unrealistic, noting that Nigeria’s political base is shifting towards consolidation around the APC.
He said that the opposition parties — the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP)- remain weakened by internal divisions and lack of strategic coordination. According to him, these weaknesses will prevent them from mounting an effective challenge in the coming election cycle.
The senator further stressed that political experience, national spread, and governance record remain decisive factors in Nigerian elections, and that President Tinubu possesses all three.
He added that the administration’s ongoing reforms, though tough, would yield long-term benefits that voters would appreciate before 2027.
Kalu also stated that President Tinubu’s political history, beginning from his tenure as Lagos governor to his role as APC leader, reflects resilience and strategic foresight that opposition candidates cannot match.
Oshiomhole Rules Out Jonathan, Atiku, and Obi in 2027 Race
He argued that the president’s current focus on rebuilding the economy and strengthening infrastructure will shape voter perception positively in the coming years.
Speaking on the performance of the opposition, the senator remarked that Atiku Abubakar’s repeated bids for the presidency have lost momentum, while Peter Obi’s Labour Party lacks the organisational depth to sustain national political influence. He added that the return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to active politics would be both unnecessary and constitutionally constrained.
According to Kalu, Jonathan has already served his constitutional limit and should remain a respected statesman rather than seek a comeback. He explained that the law bars anyone who has served more than one term as president from contesting again, directly or indirectly.
He said that Jonathan’s role should now focus on diplomacy, conflict resolution, and mentorship rather than political competition.
The senator reiterated that continuity under Tinubu’s administration is essential for national development, arguing that frequent changes in government often disrupt policy consistency. He therefore urged Nigerians to support ongoing reforms and allow the president enough time to complete his programmes.
Kalu emphasised that governance, not campaign rhetoric, should be the focus for both ruling and opposition politicians in the years leading to the election. He stated that meaningful progress can only be achieved when political actors prioritise stability and cooperation over rivalry.
Beyond internal politics, he also cautioned against unnecessary tension and divisive campaigns that could distract from national priorities. He urged politicians to place unity above partisan interest and work collectively towards the country’s recovery.
Political analysts note that Kalu’s endorsement of Tinubu reflects the growing confidence within the ruling APC that the president remains electorally strong despite economic challenges. Some observers, however, argue that his statement may be a strategic attempt to consolidate party unity ahead of what could become a fiercely contested election.
The opposition, on the other hand, has continued to criticise the government over economic hardship, inflation, and insecurity. Both Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have in recent months intensified public engagements, promising alternative governance models should they seek office again.
Nonetheless, Kalu insists that Nigerians will evaluate leaders not just by promises but by proven capacity and track records. He maintained that Tinubu’s reform agenda, though controversial, is laying a foundation for sustainable growth.
The senator concluded by calling for political maturity and national cohesion as Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle. He urged all political actors to put the country’s interest first, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and focus on practical solutions to the challenges facing citizens.
With campaigns expected to begin formally in 2026, analysts predict that the contest may once again revolve around the economy, governance style, and public perception of reform outcomes. For now, voices like Kalu’s reflect a growing conviction within the APC that President Tinubu remains firmly positioned for another victory.
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