*Ohuabunwa warns Tinubu, says Nigerians yearn for strong opposition
As Nigeria drifts toward another decisive election cycle in 2027, conversations around political realignments have intensified. For Sam Ohuabunwa, pharmacist-turned-statesman and former presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the emerging coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may well be the most significant challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) since 2015.
Ohuabunwa does not mince words when he recalls how the PDP’s internal implosion in 2023 cleared the path for President Bola Tinubu.
“Atiku left, Obi went away, Kwankwaso left. These three strong politicians split the PDP and weakened it. If you combine their votes, they got over 15 million. Tinubu won with about eight million. That tells the story,” he explained.
In his view, the ADC coalition is essentially a reunion of estranged forces, a scenario that should “naturally worry” the APC. He draws a historical parallel: just as APC was forged from multiple opposition parties in 2015 to dethrone the PDP, the ADC could now serve as a regrouping ground to wrest power from the ruling party.
But beyond power play, Ohuabunwa insists strong opposition is the heartbeat of democracy.
“In a system without opposition, leaders become complacent and take citizens for granted. Opposition is a feedback mechanism. It compels those in power to learn, adjust, and remain accountable,” he said.
He argued that Nigerians, fatigued by the APC–PDP duopoly, may look toward the ADC as an alternative. Still, he admitted the coalition must overcome questions about its seriousness and the ruling party’s alleged efforts to suppress its growth.
Turning to the economy, Ohuabunwa was scathing about how government revenues have failed to translate into better living conditions.
“With fuel subsidy gone and trillions flowing in from oil, Nigerians should feel relief. Instead, poverty is deepening. What’s the essence of saving billions when the children are hungry and out of school?” he asked.
He urged government to cut recurrent spending, beginning from the presidency, and demonstrate frugality that ordinary Nigerians can relate to. In his words:
“What makes Peter Obi attractive to people is his simplicity—flying economy, travelling light, no entourage. Leadership is about example, not propaganda.”
Ohuabunwa also touched on Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, particularly in the South-East, where Amnesty International estimates over 1,800 deaths in recent years.
He described it as “a failure of governance,” noting that military crackdowns alone cannot solve the problem. Instead, he advocated a non-kinetic approach: dialogue with separatist leaders and armed groups, much like the late President Umaru Yar’Adua did with Niger Delta militants.
“Government should free Nnamdi Kanu and engage him to help calm the region,” Ohuabunwa advised, warning that ideology cannot be crushed by force.
On the recent arrest of former Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ohuabunwa suggested the timing was suspect.
“Tambuwal has held public office for years. Why arrest him now? It raises the suspicion of political motivation,” he said, likening it to “the witch crying last night and the child dying this morning.”
Celebrating his 75th birthday, Ohuabunwa described survival in Nigeria as “nothing short of divine grace.” Stress, he admitted, has been a lifelong companion, but routine medical checks and a strong network built across business, politics, and faith have kept him going.
“Knowledge, faith, and God’s grace are my secrets,” he smiled.
Whether the ADC coalition becomes the vehicle that unseats Tinubu remains uncertain. For Ohuabunwa, the real test is whether opposition leaders can overcome ego and truly commit to a united front.
“The possibility is there,” he said. “But the question is: are they serious enough, and will the ruling party allow a free and fair contest?”
As 2027 looms, Nigerians will soon decide if they are ready to rewrite history—or repeat it.
