Paragraph 1: Yakasai’s Endorsement of Tinubu’s Administration
Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, a prominent Nigerian elder statesman and veteran politician from the First Republic, has publicly expressed his strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Yakasai, speaking from Kano, commended the government for what he sees as steady progress and tangible achievements since assuming office. He highlighted the perceived decrease in the prices of essential foodstuffs like rice, beans, maize, and sorghum, emphasizing that this improvement has made these staples more affordable for Nigerian families. Additionally, Yakasai noted a reported reduction in petrol prices, with some stations allegedly selling fuel for as low as N850 per liter, down from N1,150. He praised this development as beneficial for transportation and the overall mobility of Nigerians.
Paragraph 2: Yakasai’s Call for Northern Support and Tinubu’s Future Plans
A key supporter of Tinubu’s presidential bid in 2023, Yakasai urged the people of northern Nigeria to continue rallying behind the administration, assuring them that the region is not excluded from the government’s plans. He expressed confidence that the administration’s best is yet to come, referencing upcoming developmental policies and programs designed to benefit all Nigerians, particularly those in the North. Yakasai also called on Nigerians and the political class to actively contribute to the nation’s democracy through informed criticism and constructive dialogue, promoting a more participatory and engaged citizenry.
Paragraph 3: Condolences and the Political Landscape
Yakasai’s commendation of Tinubu’s performance coincides with a period of political maneuvering, particularly regarding the 2027 presidential elections. Against this backdrop, Yakasai expressed his condolences on the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clarke, both of whom he described as personal friends and political associates, lamenting their loss as a significant blow to the nation. His expression of grief comes as political realignments are taking shape, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding political narrative.
Paragraph 4: El-Rufai’s Call for Opposition Unity and Lamido’s Rebuke
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has initiated a movement to consolidate opposition against President Tinubu’s potential re-election bid in 2027. El-Rufai, who recently left the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has extended invitations to prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, urging them to join him in the SDP. This call, however, has been met with strong resistance, particularly from Sule Lamido, a former Jigawa State Governor and a stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Lamido, in a pointed rebuke, criticized El-Rufai’s leadership and questioned his motives for leaving the APC.
Paragraph 5: Lamido’s Critique of El-Rufai and Political Philosophy
Lamido’s rejection of El-Rufai’s overture underscored the deep divisions within the Nigerian political landscape. He reminded El-Rufai of his political roots within the PDP, emphasizing that El-Rufai’s influence was insufficient to sway PDP members. Furthermore, Lamido pointed to El-Rufai’s past statements about the lack of “adults” in Nigerian politics, highlighting the perceived contradiction in El-Rufai’s current call for unity among opposition figures. Lamido’s stance reflects a broader debate about political consistency and the nature of leadership. He argued that effective leadership necessitates patience and a clear vision, rather than impulsive actions driven by anger or self-serving interests.
Paragraph 6: APC’s Confidence in Tinubu’s 2027 Prospects
Meanwhile, the APC remains confident about President Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 elections. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, an APC chieftain in Osun State and a former member of the Osun State House of Assembly, dismissed the significance of any opposition alliances against Tinubu. He asserted that no amount of political maneuvering would derail Tinubu’s re-election bid, emphasizing the President’s “winning strategy,” political acumen, and widespread support. Oyintiloye’s confident pronouncements reflect the APC’s belief in Tinubu’s popularity and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape. This contrasting perspective highlights the emerging battle lines as the nation looks ahead to the 2027 elections.
