Mark Adebayo, the National Publicity Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has expressed grave concerns over the current state of Nigerian politics, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of deliberately exacerbating crises within opposition parties to establish a one-party state ahead of the 2027 elections.
In an exclusive interview with Abdulrahman Zakariyau, Adebayo emphasized that the ambitions of key stakeholders within the opposition are the biggest threat to the success of coalition talks.
As an opposition leader, Adebayo did not mince words about the leadership of President Tinubu. He described the administration as one that has, in just two years, pushed Nigeria into deep economic hardship, with little progress in sectors like security, health, education, and the economy.
“Every sector of the economy and region of the country is suffering,” he stated, criticizing the administration’s anti-people policies and lack of action in addressing national crises.
Challenges for 2027
Regarding the 2027 presidential elections, Adebayo was candid about the difficulty of unseating President Tinubu, stating that while the opposition is working hard, the ruling party’s manipulation of opposition dynamics may make it nearly impossible.
“President Tinubu is already working on two major projects for 2027: creating a one-party state and potentially setting the stage for a third term or even life presidency,” Adebayo warned. He explained that the crises in major opposition parties like the PDP, Labour Party, and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) are being intentionally fueled by the ruling party to weaken the opposition.
Adebayo cited comments made by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who also accused the ruling party of orchestrating these divisions. “These crises are being blown out of proportion because they want to weaken the opposition to the point where it can’t even contest against them,” Adebayo said.
The Role of the Opposition
Despite the hurdles, Adebayo expressed hope that the opposition can still form a united front for the 2027 elections, but warned that the biggest threat to the coalition’s success is personal ambition among key political figures.
He noted the persistent tension over whether former Vice President Atiku Abubakar should step aside for a southern candidate, even though Atiku is legally entitled to run again. “If the opposition cannot unite behind one candidate, the coalition will not make an impact in 2027,” Adebayo cautioned, stressing the importance of strategic patience and cooperation.
Adebayo pointed to the 2013 coalition that formed the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing together various political parties to challenge the then-ruling PDP. He suggested that the opposition could learn from that coalition, where patience and unity eventually led to victory.
Coalition Negotiations and Strategy
As for the current status of coalition talks, Adebayo revealed that there is significant behind-the-scenes negotiation and mobilization happening across Nigeria. Although there is no public consensus yet, he assured that the opposition is working hard to unify around a single candidate.
“What is being built quietly will come into the open before the end of this year,” he said. Adebayo also hinted at the possibility of supporting a candidate from the Social Democratic Party (SDP), but emphasized that the coalition should focus on rallying behind one presidential contender, regardless of party affiliation.
Electoral Integrity and the Role of Political Parties
Adebayo also addressed concerns about electoral malpractices, stressing the need for greater political education among the Nigerian electorate. He criticized both INEC and political parties for failing to educate voters adequately, which has led to low voter turnout in past elections.
“We need to focus on politicians and political parties, as that is where rigging begins,” he said, urging the opposition to prioritize voter education and monitoring electoral processes to ensure a fair and credible election.
Advice to President Tinubu on INEC Chairman Selection
When asked about President Tinubu’s potential replacement for INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Adebayo warned against appointing a candidate based on ethnic sentiments, as he claimed that doing so could damage Nigeria’s democracy.
“It would be a tragedy for Nigeria’s democracy if President Tinubu is considering a Yoruba person for the role of INEC chairman,” he said, stressing that the selection should focus on competence, fairness, and integrity rather than ethnic affiliation.
Call to Nigerians
In conclusion, Adebayo called on Nigerians, especially the youth, to become more politically engaged and actively participate in the coalition movement.
He urged the electorate to stand firm against vote-buying and vote based on conscience. “We must support a presidential candidate who is humane, patriotic, and incorruptible,” he stated, reaffirming that the opposition’s path to victory lies in unity and strategic action.
