Nigeria’s Political Climate Heats Up: Elder Statesman Issues Stern Warning Ahead of 2027 Elections
As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, a respected elder statesman, Adesunbo Onitiri, has sounded a warning bell, urging key political figures to tread with caution and patriotism. In a statement issued in Lagos, Onitiri cautioned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former governors Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna and Peter Obi of Anambra against actions and rhetoric that could destabilize the nation’s political climate.
Onitiri’s warning comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with significant economic and security challenges, which demand unity and collaboration across party lines. The elder statesman, who was part of the original democrats who fought against military rule in the 1990s, emphasized that inflamed political tensions could threaten the country’s democratic stability. "As one of the original democrats who risked our lives during the 1993–1994 struggle against military rule, we cannot sit idly by while some politicians create openings for anti-democratic forces to exploit," he said.
Onitiri stressed that the current challenges facing Nigeria require cooperation, not division. He urged both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition leaders to set aside partisanship and work together for the benefit of the Nigerian people. "The Federal Government is making efforts to address the inherited economic and security issues since taking office in 2023. What is needed now is cooperation, not division," he added.
The elder statesman particularly criticized Atiku’s reported move to seek intervention from an American court to disqualify President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, describing it as unnecessary and unacceptable to most Nigerians. This move, Onitiri believes, could further polarize the political landscape and create an environment conducive to anti-democratic forces.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, Onitiri’s warning serves as a timely reminder of the need for political leaders to prioritize the country’s stability and unity. With the nation facing numerous challenges, it is imperative that political figures put aside their differences and work towards a common goal of promoting democratic stability and prosperity for all Nigerians. By doing so, they can ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner, reflecting the will of the Nigerian people.
