2027: Tinubu, Atiku’s Allies Trade Tackles

The political arena in Nigeria is once again buzzing with activity, this time with allies of President Bola Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar engaging in a heated exchange that refocuses attention on the current administration's performance. The latest salvo was fired by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who lauded President Tinubu's extensive political experience, suggesting that opposition figures would find it difficult to match his strategic acumen. Keyamo, in a social media post, characterized the president as a seasoned political operator, implying a clear advantage in any future electoral contests. However, this assertion was met with a swift and sharp rebuttal from Phrank Shaibu, Atiku Abubakar's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication. Shaibu argued that conflating political history with effective governance is a mistake. He redirected the discourse towards the pressing socio-economic issues plaguing Nigeria, emphasizing that the populace is far more preoccupied with their daily struggles than with past political victories. Shaibu articulated that while Tinubu might have excelled in opposition politics, governance is fundamentally about delivering tangible results, not mere rhetoric. He posited that the 'myth of invincibility' is often a last resort for a failing narrative. According to Shaibu, history might record political battles, but the present reality will judge leadership based on performance. He asserted that no amount of myth-making can obscure the truth of Tinubu's administration, which he deemed an "abysmal failure." Shaibu further elaborated that the value of political strategy is nullified if it does not translate into tangible improvements in citizens' welfare. He questioned the purpose of being '100 steps ahead' in political scheming when millions of Nigerians are being pushed backward by hunger, insecurity, and a deteriorating standard of living. For Shaibu, governance is not a masterclass in manipulation but a critical test of compassion, competence, and courage. He concluded that Nigerians are not impressed by recycled opposition tactics disguised as brilliance, as they are daily confronted by empty pockets, unsafe communities, and a government that appears disconnected from their suffering. He stressed that no amount of propaganda can mask such a stark reality.

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Tinubu may have excelled in opposition politics, but governance is about results, not rhetoric. The myth of invincibility is often the last refuge of a failing narrative.