2027: Again, politicians gear up for guber, what about governance?
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
In Nigeria’s bustling cities, where traders and citizens struggle with rising costs, and across the farmlands of the North, where insecurity continues to threaten livelihoods, a familiar pattern is unfolding. Politicians, once again, are instead shifting their focus towards the next election.
Although the 2027 polls are still two years away, intense political manoeuvring is already in motion, raising concerns about whether governance will once again take a back seat to power struggles. The recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has sent shockwaves through the political landscape.
Simultaneously, opposition figures, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, are reportedly exploring a coalition that could reshape Nigeria’s political future. But as political heavyweights realign ahead of the next contest, many Nigerians are left wondering: who is focusing on governance?
Nigeria’s political history is littered with cases of premature electioneering, where the focus shifts from governance to political strategy long before votes are cast. The consequences are well-documented—stalled development, abandoned projects, and policies designed more for electoral advantage than national progress. With economic hardship deepening, inflation soaring, and security concerns persisting, many citizens fear that the increasing fixation on politicking could worsen the country’s existing challenges.
“We need leaders who will focus on solutions, not just the next election,” says Ibrahim Musa, a trader in Kaduna. “Every time elections approach, governance slows down, and we are left to suffer.” His frustration echoes the sentiments of many Nigerians who feel abandoned by the political class once election season nears.
El-Rufai’s decision to exit the APC has sparked widespread speculation about his next political move. Known for his assertive governance style and bold political rhetoric, his departure raises questions about the internal stability of the ruling party. Could his exit signal a broader political realignment? Is he set to join the opposition, form a new alliance, or carve out an independent path?
While his next step remains uncertain, one thing is clear: his actions will have significant repercussions on Nigeria’s political terrain. El-Rufai has already hinted at the possibility of accepting the Social Democratic Party (SDP) ticket for the 2027 general elections, adding further intrigue to the unfolding drama.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Peter Obi, Bala Mohammed, and other opposition figures are engaged in discussions about forming a coalition ahead of 2027. Their objective is straightforward—prevent the fragmentation that undermined the opposition’s chances in 2023. However, political alliances in Nigeria have historically been fragile. The challenge lies not just in forming a coalition but in keeping it intact. If the opposition manages to maintain unity, it could significantly alter the electoral landscape. Yet, as past experiences suggest, staying together may prove as difficult as securing votes.
For many Nigerians, the real question extends beyond who wins the next election—it is about whether governance will improve. “We need leadership that prioritises economic growth and security, not just political survival,” says Romanus, a fashion designer based in Kaduna. His concerns reflect the growing impatience among citizens who demand tangible solutions rather than endless political manoeuvring.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is already facing a major test—delivering governance while navigating the complexities of political dynamics. As opposition forces consolidate and internal party tensions rise, his government must ensure that national issues remain at the forefront.
The coming months will be crucial. How well the administration tackles economic hardship, insecurity, and other pressing concerns could shape the political narrative leading up to 2027.
Nigeria now stands at a familiar crossroads. Will its leaders prioritise the welfare of the people over political ambitions, or will governance be sacrificed for electoral calculations? The answer to this question will ultimately determine the country’s trajectory, far more than any political defection or alliance ever could.
