Abubakar Yusuf Dingyadi, former media aide to Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Iliya Damagum, has dismissed the chances of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or any of its potential allies defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking to journalists, Dingyadi declared that neither former president Goodluck Jonathan nor Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi could unseat Tinubu, especially in the northern region. He described Tinubu as the strongest political contender ahead of the next general elections, stressing that the president enjoys unwavering loyalty from political allies who have made significant sacrifices for him.
“Those running to other parties now are the same people who never stood to fight for or build their former parties. So if they think they can unite against Tinubu, they are joking,” Dingyadi said.
He argued that neither Jonathan nor Obi would be able to convince northern voters that they could outperform Tinubu, particularly in addressing security issues. According to him, both men failed to present a united front in 2023 and remain politically divided.
Dingyadi criticised some opposition politicians for placing personal ambition above building strong political structures, singling out members of the ADC. He claimed that many within the party were already preparing to defect if they failed to secure the party’s endorsement or presidential ticket.
“These politicians are touring the country, holding press conferences and media chats, often without being invited, just to criticise Tinubu. Yet, when they had opportunities to lead, they did nothing tangible for the people,” he said.
The former PDP aide also took aim at individuals claiming to represent northern interests, accusing them of acting out of self-interest rather than genuine concern for the region. He emphasised that no outsider could claim to love the North more than its people.
“This is not about ethnicity. Nigeria of that time is past. If you want to rule Nigeria, tell us what you have done for the North and what you will do to ensure its survival,” Dingyadi stated.
His remarks come amid growing political manoeuvres and coalition talks within the opposition ahead of 2027. Recent discussions about possible alliances between former high-profile politicians and emerging parties have stirred speculation about a broader anti-Tinubu coalition. However, Dingyadi’s comments reflect skepticism about the unity, credibility, and electoral strength of such efforts, particularly in northern Nigeria, which played a decisive role in the 2023 election outcome.
For now, Dingyadi maintains that Tinubu’s influence, political network, and loyal support base give him a clear advantage in the race for 2027, especially in the North where voter mobilisation often shapes national results.
