Betwixt and Between: The opposition and the ruling party’s 2027 electoral contest, by Engr. Bello Gwarzo Abdullahi, FNSE
The idiomatic expression “Betwixt and between” aptly encapsulates the political landscape in Nigeria, which finds itself in a state of flux and uncertainty. The disheartening revelations emerging from the ruling APC and the Coalition are sufficient to instill trepidation.
The circumstances have never been so dire, primarily due to what can be characterized as “shattered aspirations,” stemming from the actions, or lack thereof, of the ruling party, coupled with the palpable absence of unity, strategic foresight, and a cohesive mission among the opposition.
The impending 2027 electoral contest thus portends a fierce struggle between the opposition and the ruling party. Both factions are bracing for a confrontation that will indelibly shape the future trajectory of the nation.
The opposition, propelled by an impassioned desire for change and reform, is desperately grasping for any semblance of a lifeline, yet still exhibits no signs of a consolidated strategy.
For instance, the recent coalition movements have shown promise in uniting diverse factions disillusioned by the ruling party’s performance. However, challenges such as conflicting aspirations among key players have impeded their progress. Conversely, the ruling party, under its incumbent leadership, appears more preoccupied with dismantling the opposition than with underscoring its own accomplishments, engendering a sense of despair among the populace.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the Labor Party (LP), and the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), as the principal opposition platforms, are grappling with crises characterized by internal divisions that undermine their support base. The situation is further exacerbated by defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). President Tinubu’s aggressive recruitment strategies have fortified the APC’s ranks, posing a formidable challenge to the opposition’s unity and stability.
As the 2027 elections loom, President Tinubu is strategically leveraging his incumbency to fortify his re-election aspirations. However, escalating discontent among Nigerians regarding economic hardships and allegations of nepotism could jeopardize his political future. The opposition, on the other hand, struggles to identify a unifying leader and articulate a clear agenda.
To ensure that the ruling party is effectively challenged, strategic measures such as prioritizing grassroots engagement, nurturing leadership recruitment, and addressing internal schisms are imperative. Moreover there is the need for opposing to “shine their eyes”(apologies to Senator Henry Seriake Dickson) in their bid to capture power.
It is heartening to observe that while the political terrain in Nigeria presents formidable challenges, the resilience and solidarity of Nigerians have historically prevailed in the face of adversity.
By drawing lessons from past experiences and uniting against political manipulations, the Nigerian populace can secure a future where no leader takes their trust for granted.
The forthcoming elections hold the key to shaping the nation’s destiny, and it is incumbent upon the citizens to navigate through the complexities and emerge more resolute than ever before.
bgabdullahi@gmail.com
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