The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has expressed confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will retain power at the centre in the 2027 presidential election.
Ndume said the opposition coalition rallying under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), involving Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, has yet to present any fresh ideas capable of unseating President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television, on Thursday, the lawmaker said while the opposition figures remain prominent, they have not articulated a distinct alternative agenda.
“I am not worried because nobody is coming up with something new. Everybody is talking about either Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Atiku, Amaechi, or Peter Obi. I don’t see anything new they are bringing to the table,” Ndume said.
He, however, cautioned against dismissing the opposition outright, noting that political dynamics can shift unexpectedly.
“The man holding the steering wheel now is Tinubu, but those trying to take over, including the ADC, appear divided. Initially, I had confidence, but when people focus more on personal ambition, it is not a big deal.
“Despite having strong personalities, they have not been able to put their house in order. But you cannot underrate any opposition, no matter how small,” he added.
Drawing a parallel with past political developments, Ndume recalled how the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) once underestimated the APC before it eventually took power.
“Remember, that was how PDP viewed APC initially. Muhammadu Buhari contested several times before succeeding. So, I am not writing Atiku, Obi or Amaechi off,” he said.
Ndume emphasised that a strong opposition remains essential for a healthy democracy, even as he maintained that the ADC does not currently pose a significant threat.
On whether Nigerians should reject Tinubu in 2027 over unmet expectations, the senator said the decision ultimately rests with the electorate. He acknowledged that insecurity and economic hardship have overshadowed the administration’s achievements.
According to him, improved security, better electricity supply, and enhanced welfare for citizens would be critical in shaping public support for the APC.
“Our major challenges are security and the welfare of the people. If the government addresses these and its policies begin to yield results, Nigerians will respond positively. Nigerians are forgiving—once things improve, they move on,” Ndume said.
Although he admitted that public dissatisfaction exists, Ndume insisted the opposition has yet to emerge as a decisive force, stressing that resolving key governance issues would strengthen the APC’s chances in 2027.
Amid the crisis within the PDP, the ADC has gained traction as a potential opposition platform, attracting figures such as Abubakar Malami and Nasir El-Rufai, among other political heavyweights seeking to challenge the ruling party.
