As Nigeria’s political atmosphere heats up ahead of the 2027 general election, attention is shifting to potential challengers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term. With considerable public concern about economic hardship and governance, several experienced politicians are thought to be positioning themselves for the contest.
Below is TheNigerian’s analysis of seven prominent personalities who could mount a strong challenge:
Atiku Abubakar
Atiku Abubakar is a well-known figure in Nigerian presidential politics, having run unsuccessfully for the presidency several times. Despite placing second to Tinubu in the 2023 election, internal conflicts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and proposals for power rotation to the south may hinder Atiku’s next effort.
Good luck, Jonathan!
Since leaving office in 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan’s popularity has grown. According to reports, the PDP has asked him to run for president again in 2027. Jonathan has not revealed his plans, but political watchers believe he might gain backing from the north.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso
The former Kano State governor and Kwankwasiyya movement leader continues to wield influence, notably in the north. His 2023 campaign for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) saw him finish fourth. His future political move is unclear.
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Bukola Saraki
Bukola Saraki, a former Senate president and two-term governor of Kwara State, remains a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. Though he finished third in the PDP’s 2022 presidential primaries, he has yet to indicate a definite aspiration for 2027.
Peter Obi
In 2023, the former Anambra State governor transformed Nigeria’s political narrative with a stunning showing under the Labour Party, winning more than 6 million votes. While Obi continues to command youth support, pundits are waiting to see if he can maintain his momentum for another run.
Nasir El-Rufai
El-Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna State, continues to be a significant figure in the opposition. Though he has not declared a presidential candidacy, some feel he could run as a vice president or play a kingmaker role in an opposition coalition.
Rotimi Amaechi
Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State and minister of transportation, is regarded as a viable candidate. His next action is eagerly anticipated by watchers.
As the clock to 2027 continues, Nigeria’s political environment is poised for intense maneuvering, alliances, and rivalries. It remains to be seen whether President Tinubu can overcome these challenges or if a serious opponent emerges.
