A fresh political controversy has erupted ahead of the 2027 presidential election following a declaration by the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
The monarch made his position known when the Presidential Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by its Director-General, Abdulaziz Yari, paid a visit to his palace in Lagos.
Speaking during the visit, Oba Akiolu declared that there would be no change of leadership at the Presidential Villa in the next few years.
“For the next four or five years, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” the monarch said.
He, however, called on politicians and other stakeholders to ensure that the 2027 general election is peaceful, credible and conducted in a manner that benefits Nigerians.
The Oba also warned political actors against adopting the Machiavellian approach that “the end justifies the means” in their quest for electoral victory.
Atiku reacts
The monarch’s statement has since drawn a strong reaction from former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who is seeking the presidency in 2027 under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Atiku, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, argued that Nigeria’s next president would ultimately be chosen by voters and not determined by traditional rulers or political campaign organisations.
In a post shared on X, Atiku said: “Kabiyesi, with due respect, Aso Rock is not an extension of your palace, and Nigeria’s presidency is not a royal stool for you to allocate.”
He maintained that the outcome of the 2027 presidential election would be decided at the ballot box and not through endorsements from influential individuals.
“There will be a vacancy in 2027 because the Constitution says so. You may endorse Tinubu, but you cannot endorse him on behalf of over 200 million Nigerians,” he added.
‘Democracy is not coronation’
Atiku also used the opportunity to highlight the economic and security challenges confronting Nigerians, including hunger, insecurity and the rising cost of living.
He argued that while political leaders and influential figures may express support for their preferred candidates, they cannot determine the choice of the electorate ahead of the election.
“Kabiyesi, democracy is not a coronation. You may have a preferred candidate, but you do not have the authority to declare Nigeria’s presidential election settled before Nigerians vote,” Atiku said.
The exchange adds to the growing political activity ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with major political figures and groups already positioning themselves for what is expected to be a closely contested race.
