The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Gabam, has cast doubts on President Bola Tinubu’s ability to secure re-election in 2027.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Gabam cited challenges facing the Tinubu administration as key factors that could affect its political survival.
Gabam’s comments followed a recent meeting with Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Addressing criticisms of the meeting, Gabam defended his party’s decision to engage with El-Rufai, emphasizing that the SDP acted within its rights.
“Why the uproar over Malam Nasir El-Rufai? If he is as insignificant as some claim, why all the attention? If individuals like El-Rufai and Segun Sowunmi are relevant, why isn’t the government assigning them roles to enhance efficiency?” Gabam asked.
The SDP chairman explained that the meeting with El-Rufai was part of the party’s efforts to evaluate the state of the nation and strategize for the future.
“The meeting was a strategic review of the country’s situation in 2024. As an opposition party with representatives at various levels, we have a duty to highlight areas where things are not working and collaborate with others for solutions,” Gabam said.
He likened the SDP’s approach to the APC’s strategy in the lead-up to its 2015 victory over the PDP. “The APC reorganized, regrouped, and formed alliances when the PDP was failing. That’s exactly what we are doing—nothing more, nothing less.”
Gabam also criticized Tinubu’s cabinet, claiming the ministers lack the capacity to implement the president’s vision effectively.
He expressed concern about the worsening economic conditions and argued that no Nigerian president facing significant challenges in the first two years of their tenure has ever succeeded in securing re-election.
“No president with major issues in the first two years has survived the next election. Goodluck Jonathan faced opposition within two years and eventually lost. Tinubu’s administration is facing similar hurdles,” he said.
The SDP chairman reiterated the need for opposition parties to remain active and focused on solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, emphasizing the SDP’s commitment to improving governance and economic stability.
(AFRIPOST)