The Desperation of Political Failures Masquerading as Saviors: 2027’s Hustlers
By Daniel Okonkwo
The phrase “politics is a dirty game” is often used to describe the murky, manipulative, and self-serving behaviors that have become synonymous with political maneuvering—especially in Nigeria. While it is true that corruption, dishonesty, and abuse of power frequently make headlines, such a generalization overlooks the more nuanced reality. At its core, politics is simply the process of making decisions for the collective good of a people. It holds the potential to drive positive change, social justice, and national development—when executed with integrity.
However, in Nigeria’s political topography, the promise of good governance is frequently overshadowed by personal ambition, recycled leadership, and opaque alliances. As Nigerians look ahead to the 2027 general elections, the same figures who have dominated political headlines for decades are regrouping, forming new coalitions, and presenting themselves as agents of change. But are they?
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has contested the presidency of Nigeria six times—in 1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023—without success. His political journey began with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993, where he lost the primaries to Moshood Abiola and Baba Gana Kingibe. In 2007, he was the presidential candidate of the Action Congress (AC), coming third behind Umaru Yar’Adua (PDP) and Muhammadu Buhari (ANPP).
In 2011, he rejoined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and lost its primaries to incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. Switching camps again in 2014, he joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and lost the 2015 APC primaries to Muhammadu Buhari. In 2019, having returned to the PDP, he secured the presidential ticket but was defeated again by Buhari. Most recently, he lost the 2023 presidential election to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, coming second and calling for a revote alongside other opposition candidates.
With this history, many Nigerians are asking: Is Atiku's persistence driven by a genuine desire to serve the country or by personal political ambition? The lines remain blurred.
In a fresh political twist, rumors of a new coalition to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027 are gaining momentum. Key players reportedly include Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and other former APC heavyweights. Their intentions, however, have sparked skepticism.
Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has dismissed these coalition talks, labeling them a gathering of political opportunists. Speaking in Abuja during a recent event, Sowore stated:
> “I support coalitions and opposition. But not the kind that has people like El-Rufai. The moment they are offered what they want, they’ll go back to where they came from… These are Buhari’s former cabinet members. They should be forming a union of prisoners, not a political coalition.”
Similarly, Prince Adewole Adebayo, former SDP presidential candidate, echoed caution:
> “We don’t want to be a getaway car for a conspiracy and robbery we did not plan. That’s not available.”
Nasir El-Rufai, meanwhile, declared that Tinubu is finished, citing a 91% disapproval rating in the North and Southeast. He publicly endorsed the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as the best platform for an opposition merger.
These fiery declarations, while bold, raise crucial questions: Who are these politicians? Do they have the moral standing and integrity to guide Nigeria out of its prolonged crisis? Or are they simply reshuffling the same deck that has repeatedly failed the Nigerian people?
Nigerians are no strangers to disappointment. Time and again, leaders have campaigned on the wings of hope—armed with eloquent speeches, populist promises, and well-funded campaigns. Yet, once elected, many deliver policies more harmful than their predecessors.
This disillusionment is fueling skepticism about the current coalition talks. Without clear ideological direction, shared purpose, or a genuine commitment to public service, these alliances risk becoming yet another charade.
As one commentator put
Nigerians have been blessed with leaders with sugar-coated lips and gold-and-silver promises. But after elections, they make policies worse than the ones they condemned.”
A political coalition is, in theory, a legitimate and often necessary mechanism in democracies—an alliance formed when no single party commands a majority. By pooling resources and aligning goals, coalitions can drive collective progress. But in practice, especially in Nigeria, they often devolve into platforms for personal gain, betrayal, and unstable governance. Without clearly defined objectives and mutual trust, they collapse under the weight of internal contradictions.
As former Vice President Atiku Abubakar continues to question President Tinubu’s ties to figures like Belarusian businessman Alex Zingman, critics like Pharmacist Ikeagwuonwu Chinedu Klinsmann argue that Atiku himself lacks the moral authority to call out others, citing his “troubling history of financial opacity, unresolved corruption allegations, and unexplained wealth.”
In a further blow to his political legacy, Atiku has reportedly been stripped of the traditional title of Wazirin Adamawa, signaling eroding support even in his home region.
Among opposition figures, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has taken a distinct stance. While rumors swirl of his possible participation in a new coalition, Obi remains focused on a broader national agenda:
> “The only coalition I am interested in is the one against hunger, poverty, and the terrible state of healthcare and education in Nigeria.”
Obi’s position contrasts sharply with the self-serving tones of other political actors, making him a continued subject of public curiosity—and hope.
Who can Nigerians trust? Politics doesn’t have to be a dirty game. It becomes one when driven by greed, deception, and blind ambition. As 2027 approaches, Nigerians must critically evaluate those vying for leadership—judging not by their titles, party affiliations, or media presence, but by their track records, principles, and genuine concern for the nation.
The question remains: Will Nigerians continue recycling familiar names and expecting different outcomes, or will they demand true reform and accountable governance? Time will tell, but one thing is clear—Nigeria deserves better.
Daniel Okonkwo is a seasoned writer, human rights advocate, and public affairs analyst. He is known for his thought-provoking articles on governance, justice, and social equity. Through Profile International Human Rights Advocate, he continues to spotlight issues affecting Nigeria and beyond, amplifying voices that demand accountability and reform.
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