Nigerian opposition figure Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has called for a united front to unseat President Bola Tinubu and his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, criticizing the government’s handling of economic and security crises. The former Sokoto State governor and current senator made the remarks during a high-profile return to Sokoto on Friday, where a large crowd of supporters from three northwestern states—Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara—gathered to welcome him, signaling early momentum for opposition coalition-building.
Tambuwal, a former Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, accused the Tinubu administration of deepening poverty, insecurity, and political instability since taking office in 2023. Addressing supporters who lined the streets with banners and chants, he framed the 2027 election as a pivotal moment to “reclaim power” from the APC. “We warned Nigerians that Tinubu’s leadership would bring hardship, and today, hunger and despair are proof,” he said, referencing his pre-election critiques of Tinubu’s policies, which he once labeled “Bola’s Garbage.”
Political analysts described the event as a strategic display of influence ahead of the next election cycle, noting the participation of women’s groups, youth organizations, and cross-state loyalists. Tambuwal, now a senator representing Sokoto South, emphasized collaboration with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other allies to mobilize nationwide opposition. “We will galvanize every corner of this country,” he declared, vowing that efforts to challenge the APC would remain “unintimidated and unwavering.”
Nigeria has faced mounting economic pressures under Tinubu, including inflation exceeding 33%, a currency crisis, and widespread insecurity fueled by armed groups. While the government has introduced reforms such as fuel subsidy removal to stabilize the economy, critics argue these measures have disproportionately affected low-income citizens. Tambuwal’s rhetoric reflects broader opposition frustrations, though the APC has yet to respond publicly to his latest comments.
The gathering in Sokoto highlights growing political maneuvering in Nigeria’s northwest, a region pivotal to electoral success. With over 40 million registered voters across the three states represented at the event, Tambuwal’s ability to unite factions could test the APC’s hold on a key stronghold. However, analysts caution that opposition cohesion remains uncertain, with previous alliances fracturing over competing interests.
As Nigeria approaches the midpoint of Tinubu’s term, Tambuwal’s call resonates with citizens grappling with soaring food prices and unemployment. Yet, the path to unseating the APC—which controls 20 of 36 states—depends on sustained grassroots mobilization and coalition durability. For now, the Sokoto rally marks an early salvo in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle for Nigeria’s political future.
