As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic hardship, deepening insecurity, and institutional decline, the stakes for the 2027 general election have never been higher. In the face of these challenges, it is imperative that the opposition gets its strategy right—starting with the choice of a presidential candidate.
Any proposal to offer a vice-presidential position to Mr. Peter Obi in the emerging coalition is not only a political miscalculation but an insult to millions of Nigerians demanding real change. Obi has already shown that he is the most competent and visionary leader among the current contenders. His ideas on economic recovery, job creation, security, and governance are practical and urgent.
He has consistently stressed that the root of Nigeria’s insecurity lies in joblessness. His plan to address this includes building industries and factories that will absorb Nigeria’s unemployed youth, provide steady income, and drastically reduce crime. His vision for the health and agricultural sectors also shows he understands how to rebuild national productivity and wellbeing. As he rightly puts it, “It is not rocket science.”
For any coalition to succeed in removing the ruling APC in 2027, the presidential ticket must be zoned to the South—particularly to the South East, a region yet to produce a Nigerian president. Ceding the ticket to this region is both a matter of justice and political necessity. In doing so, the coalition will not only tap into a massive base of support but also reflect the diversity and fairness that Nigerians crave.
On the other hand, pushing forward with another northern candidacy or returning to recycled political figures risks repeating the failures of the past. It will demoralise voters, fracture the coalition, and hand a clear path back to Aso Rock for the incumbent.
The time has come for bold, principled choices—not political games. A coalition that truly wants to rescue Nigeria must listen to the people and back the one candidate whose credibility, competence, and national appeal are undeniable.
The future of Nigeria must come before ambition.
God help Nigeria.
