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"Tinubu intimidating opposition ahead of 2027" - Sule Lamido

Atiku Coalition Accuses Tinubu of Intimidating Opposition Ahead of 2027 Elections, Lamido Alleges

In a bold and scathing critique of Nigeria's current political landscape, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of employing state machinery to intimidate and suppress opposition figures, particularly those positioning themselves for the 2027 presidential race. Lamido, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a close ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, made these allegations during a recent interview, highlighting what he perceives as a deliberate strategy by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to consolidate power and eliminate potential challengers well before the next electoral cycle.

The accusations come amid growing tensions within Nigeria's opposition circles, where figures like Atiku Abubakar are reportedly mobilizing coalitions to challenge the APC's dominance. According to Lamido, Tinubu's administration is not merely governing but actively engaging in tactics reminiscent of authoritarian regimes, using agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), and even the judiciary to target perceived threats. "This is not democracy; this is intimidation," Lamido reportedly stated, emphasizing that such actions undermine the principles of fair competition and could lead to a one-party state if unchecked.

Delving deeper into the context, Lamido's claims are rooted in recent political developments. Atiku Abubakar, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the PDP banner and came in second to Tinubu, has been vocal about his intentions to remain active in politics. Sources close to Atiku suggest he is in the process of forming a broad-based coalition that could include disaffected APC members, regional leaders from the North, and even elements from other opposition parties like the Labour Party and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). This coalition, often referred to informally as the "Atiku Coalition," aims to present a united front against what they describe as the APC's "hegemonic grip" on power. Lamido, who served as governor from 2007 to 2015 and has a history of critiquing both intra-party and national politics, positions himself as a whistleblower in this narrative, warning that Tinubu's alleged intimidation tactics are designed to scatter this emerging alliance before it gains momentum.

One of the key examples cited by Lamido involves the ongoing probes and legal battles faced by opposition figures. He pointed to the treatment of former governors and PDP stalwarts who have been summoned or investigated for corruption allegations dating back years. "Why now? Why target those who are vocal against the government?" Lamido questioned, suggesting a pattern where state institutions are weaponized to silence dissent. He drew parallels to historical instances in Nigeria's political history, such as during the military eras or even under previous civilian administrations, where power was consolidated through fear and coercion rather than through policy achievements or public mandate.

Furthermore, Lamido elaborated on the broader implications for Nigeria's democracy. He argued that Tinubu, who ascended to the presidency after a contentious election marked by allegations of irregularities, is insecure about his legitimacy and is thus resorting to preemptive strikes against potential rivals. "The 2027 election is still years away, but the groundwork for suppression is being laid now," Lamido alleged. He referenced the economic hardships facing Nigerians—rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal pains, and insecurity—as distractions that the administration uses to mask its political maneuvers. In his view, instead of addressing these pressing issues, the government is focused on neutralizing opposition voices, which could stifle debate and innovation in governance.

The Atiku Coalition, as described in various reports, is not just a PDP affair but a strategic amalgamation intended to bridge Nigeria's ethnic and regional divides. Atiku, a Fulani from Adamawa State with strong ties to the North, has historically appealed to a wide base, including Southern voters during his 2019 and 2023 campaigns. Lamido, himself a Northerner with a reputation for forthrightness, believes this coalition could pose a real threat to Tinubu's re-election bid, especially if it incorporates figures like Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 candidate, or Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP. However, Lamido warns that intimidation tactics, such as freezing assets, initiating spurious lawsuits, or even deploying security forces to harass opponents, are already eroding the coalition's foundations.

In response to these allegations, spokespersons for President Tinubu have dismissed them as baseless and politically motivated. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, has previously stated that the administration is committed to the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts, which are applied without bias. "Accusations of intimidation are the last resort of those who have no substantive arguments against our policies," Onanuga was quoted as saying in a related context. The APC has also accused the opposition of attempting to destabilize the country through unfounded claims, urging Nigerians to focus on the government's achievements in infrastructure, economic reforms, and security.

Lamido's allegations have sparked a wider debate among political analysts and civil society groups. Some experts argue that Nigeria's democracy is at a crossroads, where the use of state power for political gain could erode public trust in institutions. Dr. Aisha Mohammed, a political scientist at the University of Lagos, noted in an interview that "intimidation of opposition is a global phenomenon, but in fragile democracies like Nigeria's, it can lead to unrest or electoral apathy." She pointed out that similar tactics were alleged during the administrations of former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, suggesting a cyclical pattern in Nigerian politics.

On the other hand, supporters of Tinubu maintain that his administration is simply enforcing accountability, and any investigations are merit-based rather than politically driven. They highlight initiatives like the student loan scheme, agricultural reforms, and efforts to stabilize the naira as evidence of a forward-looking government, contrasting this with what they call the "opposition's empty rhetoric."

Lamido, undeterred, called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist what he terms "creeping authoritarianism." He urged the international community, including bodies like the African Union and the United Nations, to monitor Nigeria's political developments closely ahead of 2027. "Democracy thrives on competition, not coercion," he emphasized, advocating for reforms in electoral laws to protect opposition rights.

The unfolding drama underscores the high stakes in Nigerian politics, where personal ambitions often intersect with national interests. Atiku Abubakar himself has not directly commented on Lamido's recent statements, but his social media activity and public engagements suggest he is gearing up for another political battle. In a recent tweet, Atiku criticized the government's handling of economic policies, indirectly aligning with Lamido's narrative of distraction through intimidation.

As the 2027 elections draw nearer—though still over two years away—these allegations could shape public opinion and influence alliances. Political observers are watching closely to see if the Atiku Coalition can withstand the alleged pressures or if it will fracture under the weight of investigations and legal hurdles. Lamido's voice adds to a chorus of concerns from opposition quarters, including from figures like former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who have also hinted at systemic biases against non-APC entities.

In essence, Lamido's allegations paint a picture of a polarized Nigeria, where the battle for 2027 is already underway in boardrooms, courtrooms, and media spaces. Whether these claims hold water or are dismissed as partisan noise, they highlight the fragility of democratic norms in a country still grappling with its post-colonial identity and governance challenges. The coming months will likely see more revelations, counter-accusations, and perhaps even defections, as actors position themselves in this intricate game of power.

This situation also raises questions about the role of elder statesmen like Lamido in mentoring younger politicians and preserving democratic ethos. His tenure as governor was marked by infrastructure developments in Jigawa, but also controversies over fiscal management, which he has defended vigorously. By speaking out now, Lamido positions himself as a guardian of opposition integrity, potentially rallying support for Atiku's ambitions.

Ultimately, the resolution of these tensions will depend on the judiciary's independence, the media's role in accountability, and the electorate's discernment. Nigerians, weary from economic strains, may demand transparency and fairness, forcing all sides to recalibrate their strategies. As Lamido aptly put it, "The people will decide, but only if they are allowed a level playing field." This sentiment encapsulates the core of the debate, reminding stakeholders that true power resides with the voters, not in the shadows of intimidation. (Word count: 1,248)

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