By Adesakin Adefemi
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has expressed doubts about President Bola Tinubu’s chances of securing re-election in 2027. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Rhodes-Vivour cited credible polling data, suggesting there’s no clear pathway for Tinubu to emerge victorious.
Rhodes-Vivour attributed this to a significant weakening of Tinubu’s electoral support base, particularly in northern Nigeria, where he secured 62% of his votes. He criticized the current administration, alleging that governance has been concentrated among a narrow circle, describing it as a “city boys’ government”.
The ADC chieftain also linked the ongoing crisis within opposition parties, including the ADC, to a deliberate strategy by the ruling government to weaken opposition structures ahead of the next election cycle. He claimed the president is attempting to create an environment where he’s the only candidate on the ballot for the presidency, but predicted this strategy would fail.
Rhodes-Vivour’s comments come amid tensions within the ADC following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to remove David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola’s names from its portal as the party’s national chairman and secretary, respectively.
The move has been rejected by the party’s leadership, and prominent opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi, have led protests at INEC headquarters in Abuja, calling for electoral accountability.
The demonstration highlights growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The ADC’s internal crisis and INEC’s regulatory actions have raised concerns about the opposition landscape’s readiness for the upcoming polls.
Tinubu’s administration has been facing challenges, including the resignation of four ministers and several heads of agencies to pursue their 2027 political ambitions, altering permutations for governorship and National Assembly races in many states.
The 2027 elections are shaping up to be a complex and contested process, with various parties and stakeholders jostling for position. Rhodes-Vivour’s assessment underscores the uncertainties surrounding Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The political landscape in Nigeria is becoming increasingly volatile, with opposition parties exploring alliances and strategies to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.
