Kenneth Okonkwo, a former presidential spokesperson for the Labour Party, has asserted that no individual candidate can unseat President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections.
He emphasized that the only viable option for opposition leaders in the country is to form a coalition.
In light of the recent trend of politicians defecting across party lines, with many prominent figures aligning themselves with the ruling party, Okonkwo noted that these moves are primarily motivated by personal interests.
Numerous Nigerians are expressing concerns about the strength and stability of the country’s party system, with growing apprehension that Nigeria may be heading toward a one-party state.
During his appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Okonkwo expressed optimism about the formation of a coalition, although he could not specify who would be involved.
Looking ahead to 2027, I anticipate that a coalition will form. I’m uncertain whether it will involve Peter Obi and Atiku, but a coalition is inevitable.
“Why? Because that will be the only way for the opposition to make a significant impact,” Okonkwo stated.
He emphasized that failing to establish this coalition would render Tinubu unbeatable, suggesting that the President would easily secure re-election, stating, “He will just walk into it.”
Okonkwo firmly believes that no single candidate can defeat Tinubu in 2027, explaining that “in Nigeria, we have reached a point where it’s not enough to win; you must also ensure your victory.”
He noted that if the elites can unite as they did in 2014 to challenge Goodluck Jonathan in 2015, they could potentially unseat Tinubu in 2027.
Regarding the recent defections of opposition party members to the APC, Okonkwo attributed this shift to the belief that the APC will manipulate election results in their favor in 2027.
