“With Tinubu as President, There Is No Hope for Anyone in 2027” – APGA Ex-National Chairman, Maxi Okwu

In an exclusive interview with Daily Post, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Maxi Okwu, declared that President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 is all but certain. According to Okwu, Nigeria’s current electoral system leaves little hope for any serious opposition, as Tinubu, a seasoned politician, knows how to navigate the landscape to secure a second term.

Okwu, a lawyer and seasoned political analyst, expressed concerns over Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), citing a collapse in public confidence. Reflecting on past elections, particularly in Edo State, he criticized the electoral management process and highlighted the failings of electronic systems like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). Okwu argued that despite the introduction of technology, manual manipulations still undermine the results. He likened Nigeria’s current electoral practices to an outdated “Stone Age” system, compared to more transparent systems like those in the United States.

Discussing Anambra State politics, Okwu shared insights on the uncertain future of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in APGA. He suggested that Soludo might find his way to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) if he fails to reconcile with the party’s leadership. He also alluded to APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje’s claim that the party would win Anambra in 2025, considering it a plausible outcome.

When asked about Tinubu’s chances in 2027, Okwu responded confidently, stating that Tinubu’s political mastery and the inefficiencies within INEC make it highly unlikely that he will lose. “Anyone dreaming of denying him a second term is simply delusional,” he remarked, pointing to Tinubu’s deep political acumen as an advantage.

Okwu also addressed the human rights issues under the current administration, pointing out that recent government actions, such as the arrest of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero, raise serious questions about Tinubu’s pro-democracy stance. “It is shocking that under his watch, the very things he once fought against are happening,” he said, expressing frustration at the widespread silence from Nigeria’s civil society and opposition.

Further criticizing the opposition, Okwu singled out former Rivers State Governor and current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, describing him as a “rogue element.” He expressed disappointment in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for allowing Wike to continue exerting influence while playing both sides in the APC and PDP.

Turning to broader national issues, Okwu discussed the rising suicide rates in Nigeria, placing the blame squarely on the government’s failure to provide adequate welfare and security. He criticized the administration for its economic mismanagement, drawing attention to the high cost of living and the depreciating value of the Naira. Okwu said, “It is the government’s responsibility to create an enabling environment for people to thrive and be happy; they are not doing so.”

The former APGA chairman also responded to recommendations by former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega, who suggested ranching as a solution to the ongoing farmer-herder clashes in Nigeria. Okwu dismissed the idea of open grazing, calling it an outdated practice that has worsened under the Buhari administration. He emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, advocating for local control to better protect citizens.

In sum, Okwu’s interview paints a bleak picture for Nigeria’s democratic process, expressing deep concerns over governance, human rights, and national security under the Tinubu administration. His prediction for 2027 suggests that unless significant changes occur, Tinubu’s grip on power may be difficult to challenge.