Ahead of the general elections in 2027, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has solidified his hold on power, according to recent political actions in the nation.
It seems that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has weakened, divided, and increasingly coopted the opposition.
This concentration of power under Tinubu, according to experts, is similar to the PDP’s domination under Obasanjo.
An important turning point in Nigeria’s political history was the 2003 elections held under the Obasanjo-led administration.
By winning the majority of state governorships and securing an overwhelming majority in the national assembly, the PDP diminished opposition parties to a shell of their former glory.
It seems that Tinubu’s APC is playing by the same rules ahead of 2027. Due to the promise of patronage, financial incentives, and political importance, opposition leaders are leaving in large numbers.
Because they perceive joining the ruling party as a means of accessing resources and opportunities, many opposition leaders are under pressure from their supporters.
According to political observers, Tinubu’s consolidation of power demonstrates the structural flaws in Nigeria’s democratic institutions even though it is a tribute to his political savvy.
“Opposition parties face the difficult task of not just surviving but also redefining themselves as viable substitutes that may regain the trust of a disillusioned population as the 2027 elections get near.
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There is a lot on the line. Nigeria could revert to a one-party dominating system, similar to that of the early 2000s, when electoral competition is merely nominal, if the opposition is unable to come together and put up a united front.
Professor Omo Omoruyi of the renowned Centre for Democratic Studies said, “for democracy to flourish, the opposition must find a way to resist co-optation, rebuild its grassroots support, and challenge the pervasive culture of patronage that continues to shape Nigerian politics.”
