By: Dr Sagir Buhari FCIA.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is indeed a master political strategist, boasting over three decades of experience navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Tinubu’s entry into politics was marked by his involvement in the Social Democratic Party in 1991. He was elected to the Senate in 1992, representing Lagos West Senatorial District. However, his time in the Senate was cut short when the Military Head of State General Sani Abacha dissolved the Interim government of Chief Ernest Shonekan in 1993. Tinubu went into exile and became an activist, campaigning for the return of democracy in Nigeria.
In 1999, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu returned to Nigeria and was elected as the Governor of Lagos State, a position he held until 2007. During his tenure, he implemented several reforms and infrastructure projects, earning him recognition as one of the best governors in Nigeria.
Tinubu’s political career continued to soar as he played a key role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013. He supported Muhammadu Buhari’s presidential campaign in 2015.
In 2023, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu realized his long-held ambition of becoming the President of Nigeria, winning the presidential election and succeeding Muhammadu Buhari. His presidency has been marked by significant economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies.
Throughout his career, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking, perseverance, and a commitment to democracy. His legacy continues to shape Nigerian politics, and his presidency is expected to bring about significant changes to the country’s economy and governance. His pivotal role during the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was widely believed to have been won by Chief MKO Abiola, showcased his exceptional strategic thinking and unwavering commitment to democracy.
As the 2027 elections approach, President Tinubu’s remarkable political prowess will undoubtedly be put to the test. Although predicting the outcome is exceedingly challenging, his vast experience and astute strategic thinking will likely play a significant role in shaping the political landscape.
Several key factors are expected to influence the 2027 elections in Nigeria, including: Economic Performance:The state of Nigeria’s economy, encompassing may substantially impact President Tinubu’s popularity and the election outcome. Party Politics: The strength, unity, and cohesion of President Tinubu’s party, as well as those of the opposition parties, may significantly influence the election results and Nigeria’s intricate regional dynamics, including regional interests and alliances, may also play a crucial role in shaping the election outcome.
President Tinubu’s appointments of political office holders, including Ministers and other key positions, have unequivocally signified his exceptional potential as a master strategist. Notably, the appointment of His Excellency, Nyesome Wike, two term Governor of Rivers State and Former PDP Presidential Aspirant, as Minister of the Federal Capital Abuja, appointment of His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, also two term Governor of Kano State as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), also appointment of Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Minister and other notable politicians demonstrate his emphasis on loyalty, strategic mindset, foresight and his remarkable political acumen.
The political landscape in south west, south east and even the south south have begun to move in favor of the ruling party. In near future I see Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and the Minister of FCT, Nyesome Wike reconciling and likely end up in favour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and APC.
In contrast, the opposition parties, including the Labour Party, PDP, and NNPP, are currently grappling with internal conflicts, factionalization, and disunity.
His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s use his political connections and strategic prowess outside power through alliance in 2013 which resulted to the decamping of PDP and other political parties Senators, House of Representatives and the Governors into the New Merger party, the APC that brought the end of PDP rule in 2015. Now in power as the sitting President, such alliances and decamping have begun and before the end of the year, the Political Gladiator and Master Strategist, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will likely receive more opposition senators, house of representative members and even state governors into the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress. That’s Political Game with Strategic Foresight, Planning and Timing.
We all witness President Tinubu’s unwavering patience and perseverance, which ultimately led to his Presidency in 2023. As he aptly put it, “It’s my time” (“Emilokon”), and Providence answered his prayers, granting him the power to rule.Indeed power and authority belongs to God.
The 2027 elections will depend on a complex interplay of these factors. President Tinubu’s exceptional strategic thinking and vast political experience will be crucial in navigating this intricate landscape.The economic and security situation in the North West, North East and North Central will also play a crucial role in determining the future elections in Nigeria.
The three strong political players, His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of PDP, His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi of Labour Party and His Excellency, Sen Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of NNPP cannot defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu single-handedly unless they unite and form a New Mega Party. Can they Unite, or are they losing the Political Game already? Those are questions to be answered and analyzed in my next article, God willing.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Dr. Sagir Buhari FCIA
(Political Consultant and Strategist)
buharisageer@gmail.com
24th January, 2025
