The opposition may have a strong opportunity to defeat President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election, but it must do more than campaign against the government, political strategist Umar Ardo has said.
Ardo, Convener of the League of Northern Democrats, said growing concerns over the economy, insecurity, electricity and governance could work against the APC if the opposition presents a credible alternative.
He said economic hardship was one of the biggest sources of public dissatisfaction, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
According to him, many Nigerians are struggling with the rising cost of living and worsening poverty.
Ardo said the opposition should use these concerns to build a campaign around practical solutions rather than simply attacking the Tinubu administration.
He also identified insecurity as a major issue that could influence voters in 2027.
“Security is rampant everywhere. If you don’t reduce it, if you don’t stop it, you have failed,” he said.
The political strategist also criticised the government over electricity and alleged weakening of the separation of powers.
He said the opposition could turn these issues into political advantages if it was able to convince voters that it had better plans for the country.
However, Ardo cautioned that public anger alone would not deliver victory.
He said opposition parties must work together, provide credible leadership and offer Nigerians a clear alternative to the APC.
The 2027 election, he suggested, could therefore be decided not only by dissatisfaction with the ruling party but by which side offers voters a more convincing plan for tackling Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.