The political battle ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election has begun to intensify, as presidential aide Daniel Bwala pushed back against claims by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar that a united opposition could defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Atiku, speaking during an interview on Arise Television, had expressed strong confidence in the power of a coalition, stating that any consensus candidate would render Tinubu “dead on arrival” in the next election.
He also criticised the current administration, describing its performance—particularly on the economy—as disappointing and below expectations.
However, Bwala, who once served as a spokesperson to Atiku, dismissed the assertion in a sharp response posted on X (formerly Twitter), arguing that the former vice-president lacks the political strength to back such claims.
“My former boss said with a coalition candidate, President Tinubu is dead on arrival. But we know you are the coalition candidate—and he defeated you in 2023 when you had governors, states, and structures,” Bwala said.
He further questioned the viability of the proposed coalition, suggesting that it lacks the institutional backing and grassroots structure needed to pose a serious challenge.
According to him, the political advantages that once supported Atiku have since shifted, leaving the opposition fragmented and less formidable ahead of 2027.
The exchange highlights the growing political tension as early positioning and rhetoric begin to shape the narrative for the next general election, with both camps seeking to assert dominance long before the campaign season officially begins.