Tinubu Built Coalition With Politicians, Failed To Win Nigerians – Ogundamisi

Former Secretary-General of the Odua Peoples Congress, Kayode Ogundamisi, has said President Bola Tinubu’s growing political coalition may not be enough to secure his re-election in 2027 if Nigerians unite over dissatisfaction with the country’s economic situation.

Ogundamisi made the remarks during an interview with Rudolf Okonkwo on 90Minutes Africa, where he acknowledged Tinubu’s political strength and ability to bring influential figures and governors into his camp.

Describing the President as a “smart politician”, Ogundamisi said Tinubu had recognised the decline in support for his administration in parts of northern Nigeria and responded by rebuilding his political alliances across different regions.

According to him, the President’s coalition now cuts across the North-Central, South-South, parts of the South-East and North-East.

He said Tinubu’s success in attracting governors and other influential members of the political establishment could make him appear well-positioned for the 2027 election.

“He has built his coalition among the political class by being able to poach almost all the governors,” Ogundamisi said.

“But he has failed to build a coalition among the Nigerian people.”

The political commentator argued that the difference could prove decisive at the polls, particularly if voters’ economic grievances translate into a unified opposition to the administration.

Ogundamisi also criticised what he described as the scale of corruption under successive democratic governments, saying the situation had become even more troubling under the current administration.

He alleged that the government had developed a “scientific way of stealing”, pointing to what he described as the existence of multiple budgets operating simultaneously and the emergence of fake government agencies.

On the question of who should emerge as the leading challenger to Tinubu in 2027, Ogundamisi expressed support for Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

“If you put Peter Obi side by side with President Tinubu in terms of their level of compassion, Peter Obi stands out,” he said.

“This is the time that Nigeria needs somebody who is compassionate to the people.”

Ogundamisi also called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to reconsider his presidential ambition and support Obi instead.

He argued that Obi’s emergence would also align with the principle of rotational presidency.

“I believe it makes more sense for a southerner to run against President Tinubu based on the principle of rotational presidency,” he added.