“Don’t Give These Coalition People a Home, They’re Political IDPs” — Tinubu Tells Nigerian

President Bola Tinubu has dismissed recent efforts by opposition leaders to form a coalition against his administration, describing them as “politically displaced persons” seeking relevance. Speaking during a visit to Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, where he inaugurated several development projects carried out by Governor Abdullahi Sule, Tinubu downplayed the significance of the emerging coalition and warned Nigerians not to be distracted by what he called an ill-timed political move.

The president’s remarks come in response to a group of opposition figures, led by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who have applied to register a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), ahead of the 2027 general elections. Tinubu questioned the credibility of the effort and said the coalition posed no real threat to his administration.

“Those who have triggered early politics in the perdition of coalition suddenly—don’t pay them any attention; they are the political IDPs. Don’t give them a home; the hope is here,” Tinubu said. He emphasized that he would not remain silent while political opponents attempt to destabilize his government, warning that he is prepared to respond to premature electioneering.

Despite ongoing economic challenges, the president asserted that his administration has made measurable progress, particularly in reducing government waste. “We’ve cut the waste. I won’t say much on the economic dynamism that we’re facing, but the hope is here. From this moment on, you’ll have no regret,” he told the audience.

Tinubu commended Governor Sule for his leadership and development efforts, noting that the governor has made efficient use of the state’s resources. “I can see hard work coming from A.A. Sule, who is determined to use the resources available to him for the benefit, stability, and prosperity of Nasarawa State,” he said. “Sule is doing well because Bola Tinubu is doing well, too.”

The president also acknowledged the role of the Nasarawa State First Lady and reiterated the federal government’s commitment to supporting the state’s growth and development.