2027: No Single Party Can Defeat Tinubu, Says Ex-Presidential Candidate

Former presidential candidate Chief Martin Onovo has stated that no single opposition party stands a realistic chance of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos, Onovo emphasized the need for a strong and united opposition alliance as the only viable path to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the polls.

Onovo, who contested the 2015 presidential election under the now-defunct National Conscience Party (NCP), backed the coalition efforts led by former PDP presidential candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and other political figures. He called the initiative a step in the right direction and urged opposition leaders to stay united in purpose.

“I was the brain behind the largest coalition ever in the Fourth Republic, which birthed the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), and I can tell you that coalition is the only way because a united minority is stronger than a divided majority,” he said. “The coalition will win the 2027 election with 99 percent of the votes if it is not self-sabotaged. Take it to the bank—it will not fail; it will succeed and defeat the ruling party convincingly if they do it well.”

Onovo, who also serves as Head of Policy Positions for the Movement for Fundamental Change (MFC), warned that unless opposition parties present a united front, the APC will remain difficult to unseat in the next election.

Assessing the current administration’s performance mid-way through its first term, Onovo expressed disappointment, particularly in the areas of national security and the provision of basic needs for the masses. He called on President Tinubu to refocus efforts on improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, especially in rural communities, and to bring in competent technocrats to strengthen his cabinet.

“The president needs to be clear about his objectives; he should be all out to better the welfare and security of ordinary Nigerians in the city and remotest areas. We need competent people in positions, not loyalists. Let us get the right people, right strategies and ethical environment while the President provides leadership and takes responsibility,” he said.

Onovo stressed the need for strategic leadership in security and economic sectors, advocating for performance over political loyalty. He also urged the administration to intensify its anti-corruption campaign and reduce the inequality index, which he identified as a major driver of insecurity and social unrest.