Prominent Nigerian lawyer and rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, has argued that the wave of defections from opposition parties into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has tilted the political balance ahead of 2027.
According to him, governors and influential figures crossing over to APC are leaving the opposition fragmented and powerless to mount a serious challenge.
Adeyanju stressed that this realignment of political heavyweights will solidify Tinubu’s control of the national political map.
Opposition’s internal crisis
Adeyanju also pointed out that Nigeria’s opposition parties remain weak, divided, and distracted. He argued that the desperation of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to contest again would further worsen cracks within the opposition.
He warned that Obi’s alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition may alienate his “Obidient” supporters while Atiku’s return bid faces resistance from northern politicians already eyeing 2031.
These unresolved internal battles, Adeyanju maintained, give Tinubu a clear edge.
Zoning and northern strategy
The human rights lawyer further explained that zoning and rotational presidency will naturally favour Tinubu in 2027.
He noted that many northern politicians are unwilling to back Atiku because they are looking ahead to 2031, when the presidency is expected to return to the North.
Adeyanju insisted that with zoning, defections, and Tinubu’s grassroots popularity, his re-election is almost certain, saying: “The political map speaks for itself.”