Only a United Coalition Can Defeat Tinubu in 2027 – Ex-Presidential Candidate Onovo
By IDNN Politics Bureau
Published: June 8, 2025
Former presidential candidate Chief Martin Onovo has warned that no single opposition party stands a realistic chance of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections unless a strategic coalition is formed.
Onovo, who contested under the defunct National Conscience Party (NCP) in 2015, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains formidable and can only be unseated through collective opposition unity.
“A united minority is stronger than a divided majority,” Onovo said. “If the opposition fails to align, Tinubu will win again—easily.”
Coalition or Collapse: Onovo’s Political Forecast
Backing recent moves by Atiku Abubakar and other opposition leaders to form a mega-coalition, Onovo described the initiative as “the only workable strategy.”
He cited his own involvement in the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) as proof that such alliances can upend power structures—if they are not sabotaged from within.
“The coalition can win the 2027 election with 99% of the vote—if it isn’t self-sabotaged,” Onovo said. “Take it to the bank.”
Harsh Verdict on Tinubu’s Midterm Report
Turning to the state of governance under Tinubu, Onovo was sharply critical. He accused the administration of failing to deliver basic security and essential services, saying the country was facing deeper inequality and economic hardship.
“The president must surround himself with competent technocrats—not loyalists,” he said. “Nigeria needs the right strategies, ethical leadership, and capable commanders to tackle insecurity and suffering.”
Onovo’s Prescription for Tinubu
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Purge the cabinet of loyalists lacking competence
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Fight corruption more aggressively
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Reduce inequality which he says fuels insecurity
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Recommit to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians
“We must not sacrifice performance for loyalty. We need leadership, not sycophancy,” Onovo declared.
