Nigeria: Politics: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

By: Dr. James Bwala

The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has significantly disrupted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition’s strategy ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections. The ADC had planned to leverage Buhari’s political legacy to challenge the ruling party, particularly targeting Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. However, with Buhari’s passing, the coalition faces internal disarray as their anticipated advantage dissipates, complicating efforts to unify opposition forces and capitalize on northern political sentiments. 

The ADC has openly criticized President Tinubu’s administration for exploiting Buhari’s death to improve its own public image. The party accuses the government of orchestrating a “political theater” through federal tributes designed as calculated PR stunts, aiming to garner sympathy among Buhari loyalists and consolidate support in the north. This appropriation undermines opposition narratives that sought to use Buhari’s legacy as a counterweight against Tinubu and Shettima.

Buhari’s death has not only unsettled opposition coalitions like the ADC but also enabled the ruling government to manipulate public sentiment strategically. The evolving political landscape demands new approaches from opposition groups if they are to remain competitive in the forthcoming elections. 

As the political scene shifts, the ADC and other opposition parties must reevaluate their strategies to effectively counter the ruling party’s growing influence and maintain relevance in Nigerian politics.

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The ADC and its allies must now craft a narrative that resonates with the electorate, focusing on policy-driven agendas rather than relying solely on Buhari’s legacy to galvanize support. In this context, the ADC and its coalition partners are urged to adopt innovative campaigning strategies that prioritize tangible policy proposals addressing economic development, security, and social welfare to effectively engage a diverse voter base across Nigeria.

The ADC coalition must build robust alliances with civil society organizations and grassroots movements to amplify their reach and effectively challenge the entrenched political structures that favor the incumbents. The ADC’s ability to articulate a clear vision for Nigeria’s future while addressing the electorate’s immediate concerns will be crucial in countering the ruling party’s narrative and regaining political ground. 

To achieve this, they must also navigate the complex political dynamics that have emerged in the wake of Buhari’s death. With Buhari no longer a unifying figure, the ADC and its allies face the daunting task of redefining their identity and political message to resonate with a broader audience. However, to successfully reposition themselves, the coalition must also address internal discord and unify their ranks to present a cohesive front that can withstand both political and public scrutiny. Moreover, the coalition’s efforts must be strategically aligned to counter any attempts by the ruling party to exploit Buhari’s legacy for political gain since they claimed the ruling party is already gaining from Buhari’s death. 

A peep into recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition has revealed emerging sentiments of regret among some members regarding the defection of key figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. These “feelers” suggest that certain individuals who left the APC, particularly associates of former President Buhari, may be reconsidering their decisions due to unforeseen political challenges and instability within their new alignments. The dynamics underscore the complexities inherent in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, where shifting allegiances often reflect strategic calculations as much as ideological commitments.

While official sources and detailed analyses remain scarce, such internal reflections within the ADC coalition highlight potential fractures that could influence electoral outcomes and party cohesion. This situation aligns with broader observations about Nigeria’s opposition coalitions struggling to present a unified front against dominant parties. Understanding these regrets provides critical insight into how political realignments might affect both intra-party stability and national electoral strategies moving forward. 

This introspection may also indicate a broader dissatisfaction with the current trajectory of the ADC, as it struggles to accommodate diverse political interests and ambitions within its ranks. Moreover, the decision to defect appears increasingly precarious as the ADC grapples with internal divisions and questions about its capacity to serve as a viable opposition platform. As the political landscape continues to shift, these internal tensions could lead to a reevaluation of strategic alliances and prompt key figures to reconsider their roles within the ADC. This growing sense of uncertainty may compel some members to seek reconciliation with the APC or explore alternative political alliances that promise greater stability and influence.

While this political storms raged, the activities of both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice President, Distinguished Senator Kashim Shettima during the recent burial ceremony has been critically analyzed by a renowned political analyst who posited that the event underscored the formidable alliance between Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. 

This observation highlights how the ceremony served not merely as a cultural or religious rite but also as a potent political statement. By showcasing unity and solidarity, the event effectively dismantled attempts by detractors to sow discord between these two influential figures. The analyst’s perspective suggests that such public displays of cohesion reinforce their combined political capital, which is essential in navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.

The burial ceremony functioned as a symbolic platform where communal respect and shared values were emphasized, reflecting positively on Tinubu and Shettima’s partnership. The orchestrated unity at this solemn occasion counteracted divisive narratives propagated by opposition forces aiming to weaken their collaboration. Thus, the analyst’s insight reveals how socio-political events can transcend their immediate contexts to influence broader power dynamics, reinforcing alliances crucial for effective governance and political stability.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nigeria: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

2027: Coalition embarks on grassroots mobilisation to oust APC in Gombe

Some opposition party members in Gombe State under the auspices of Gombe State Working Group have called on its members to work together to achieve success in 2027 elections and unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government of Gov. Inuwa Yahaya.

Mr Jibrin Barde, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s 2023 governorship candidate who stated this at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Gombe on Friday, said the coalition would only succeed when they work in unity and put personal interest aside.

Barde expressed optimism that the opposition coalition would defeat the ruling APC in the next general elections.

He emphasised the need for all members to embrace unity to achieve the lofty aspirations of their movement, stressing that harnessing collective strength of the coalition would help them achieve their goal.

He stated that the coalition movement was not about individuals, hence admonished the stakeholders to prioritise the collective interest of the fold above all else.

Barde described the APC government in Gombe as “incompetent and insensitive,” accusing it of failing to improve residents’ welfare and overall governance.

“The APC has failed in Gombe State and we can not allow them to continue their misrule which would further inflict pain on residents.
“We are here to bring better days and ensure a brighter future for all our citizens; this is why we want power to change the narrative for the good of the people,” he said.

Barde stressed the importance of mobilising grassroots politicians and leaders of thought to fortify the movement towards entrenching good governance in Gombe State.

Also speaking, Mr Adamu Modibbo, Social Democratic Party (SDP) chairman in the state, urged other political groups and residents to join the coalition to achieve inclusive governance for the state’s collective benefit.
Modibbo further urged opposition parties in the state yet to be part of the coalition to join the movement to fortify the coalition ahead of 2027.

For Labour Party chairman in the state, Mr Benjamin Abner, “this is the time to get the job done by mobilising massively to get new members and fortify ourselves for the task ahead.”

Abner urged party members to take membership drive seriously instead of waiting till 2027.

In a related development, Barde in company of Modibbo and other SDP stalwarts had on Thursday held similar meeting at Akko Local Government Area were they were received by mammoth crowd.

Barde urged the party supporters to embark on massive grassroots mobilisation across the LGA towards achieving the target of the coalition group in the state, adding that the APC was already scared of the coalition movement in the state.

2027: Coalition embarks on grassroots mobilisation to oust APC in Gombe

Enemies at the Gate: The Manipulation of VP Shettima’s Statement at Adoke’s Book Launch

By: Dr. James Bwala

In a democratic society, it is essential for leaders to express their opinions openly, but often, their words can be misinterpreted or manipulated for various reasons. Recently, Vice President Kashim Shettima made a statement at the book launch of former Attorney General Mohammed Adoke. This statement has drawn criticism and misrepresentation from some political opponents, particularly those who do not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Understanding why enemies of democracy would want to twist Shettima’s words is crucial in analyzing the current political climate in Nigeria. 

I took time to watch the mood and listen over and over to the words from the VP’s shared experiences. It is vital to recognize the broader context of politics in Nigeria. The country has faced significant challenges, including corruption, insecurity, and economic difficulties. Political opponents often seek to gain leverage by creating narratives that undermine the credibility of the current administration. By twisting Shettima’s statement, these adversaries aim to create a divide among the populace. They may hope that by sowing doubt about the vice president’s loyalty to President Tinubu, they can weaken the government’s stability and weaken support for their policies. 

Again, it is understandable that political rivals may deliberately misinterpret Shettima’s words to portray the Tinubu administration in a negative light. For instance, if they suggest that the vice president expressed disdain for a particular policy or decision, this can incite public outrage and foster resistance against the government. They understand that sensationalized narratives can easily spread, especially on social media, where misinformation can go viral. This manipulation creates a dangerous environment for democracy, where facts are overshadowed by distorted versions of events. 

In addition to undermining the current administration, twisting statements like Shettima’s story at the book launch can also serve to distract from pressing issues affecting the nation by redirecting public attention towards their evil intentions. This strategy benefits only those who wish to maintain the status quo or divert criticism from their inability to address significant societal challenges, and we see that coming from the coalators and their supporters. The manipulation of Vice President Shettima’s statement at Adoke’s book launch reflects a broader pattern of political maneuvering in Nigeria. Enemies of democracy often distort words to weaken the administration and distract the public from important issues. Understanding the motivations behind such actions is essential for citizens who wish to engage meaningfully in the democratic process. A well-informed public can differentiate between genuine concerns and politically motivated attacks, thereby strengthening democracy rather than undermining it. 

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It is undeniable that the political landscape in Nigeria has been marked by a whirlwind of speculations and controversies. Despite the efforts of those who seek to undermine the current administration, both President Tinubu and his Vice President Kashim Shettima have shown a remarkable commitment to good governance. Their ability to navigate through political challenges is critical in ensuring that the focus remains on improving the lives of Nigerian citizens rather than getting lost in the distractions created by opponents. 

The political climate is often filled with rumors and accusations that can easily divert attention from important governance issues. Some critics, often labeled as enemies of peace, thrive on chaos and uncertainty, hoping to fuel division and unrest. However, Tinubu and Shettima have demonstrated that they understand the nature of these challenges. They recognize that speculation can sometimes be a tool used to erode confidence in leadership. Instead of allowing these distractions to sway their decisions, they remain committed to their goals and the well-being of the nation. 

An example of their commitment to governance can be seen in their handling of economic issues. The economy of Nigeria has faced significant challenges, including inflation and unemployment. By focusing on policies that stimulate growth and create job opportunities, Tinubu and Shettima aim to instill a sense of optimism among the populace. Their administration has introduced initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and attracting foreign investments. Through these actions, they seek to create a stable environment that benefits all Nigerians. 

The administration’s approach to security illustrates their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the country. With the rise in insecurity, such as banditry and insurgency, they have prioritized national security and sought to implement sustainable strategies that ensure the safety of citizens. They understand that a secure environment is fundamental for any form of governance and development. While there may be adversities and threats from those who wish to see the presidency falter, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remain focused on their mission. They recognize the political games at play and continue to prioritize good governance above all else. Their commitment to economic growth, security, and the betterment of Nigeria showcases a leadership that is determined to rise above distractions and deliver results for the people. By concentrating on these priorities, they aim to create a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, defying those who oppose progress. 

The role of a leader is often scrutinized by the public, especially when they share their past experiences. Kashim Shettima did so at the book launch. However, discussions emerging about the Vice President’s reflections on his time as the governor of Borno State under President Goodluck Jonathan are being twisted, manipulated, misused, and misinformed. Some are quick to interpret these reflections as signs of disloyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, such interpretations often stem from misunderstanding or mischief rather than genuine criticism of the vice president’s intentions. 

The efforts of those who seek to derail the Tinubu and Shettima administration are rooted in a desire for political power and influence. Critics often argue that their policies are ineffective or detrimental to the country. However, it is essential to assess the administration’s achievements and initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Nigerians. The persistent attempts to undermine the administration often backfire. Instead of weakening the resolve of Tinubu and Shettima, these efforts seem to galvanize their support base. The leaders have continued to engage with the public, emphasizing transparency and accountability, which are vital for restoring trust in government. While critics may proclaim failure, the growing support from various sectors of society indicates that many believe in the vision presented by this administration. 

One could also consider that political dynamics are not fixed. Those days and now are not the same. The relationship between leaders can evolve based on the circumstances at hand. Historical examples from other countries demonstrate that past leaders have often supported each other while still advocating for their individual perspectives. For instance, leaders in various democratic nations have collaborated on initiatives even when they held different positions in government. The vice president’s memories and insights from his past governance do not imply disloyalty to President Tinubu. Instead, they reflect a commitment to learning from history and improving current governance practices. It is essential for the public to separate genuine discourse from mischief-driven narratives. 

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Enemies at the Gate: The Manipulation of VP Shettima’s Statement at Adoke’s Book Launch