The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ogbaru, Anambra State, Rt. Rev. Prosper Amah, has urged President Bola Tinubu to concentrate on completing his first term in office and addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges before seeking re-election in 2027.
Amah said the administration should demonstrate tangible achievements that improve the lives of Nigerians before asking citizens to renew its mandate for another four years.
The cleric expressed concern over persistent economic hardship, hunger and insecurity, arguing that the experiences of ordinary citizens should guide the government’s priorities as preparations for the next presidential election gather momentum.
He made the remarks while speaking with journalists in Atani, headquarters of Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, according to a report published on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
The bishop also warned the President against relying on assurances from political associates whom he accused of presenting an inaccurate picture of the country’s economic and security situation.
According to Amah, some politicians surrounding the President may be more interested in protecting their positions than providing honest assessments of the challenges facing the country.
He argued that such advice could prevent the administration from recognising the extent of public dissatisfaction and taking appropriate measures to address the problems confronting Nigerians.
“I want President Tinubu to finish his first tenure and have something to present to Nigerians before talking about the 2027 general election,” the bishop said.
He added that the administration had yet to demonstrate achievements that, in his assessment, would justify its demand for another mandate.
Amah maintained that the government should prioritise governance and measurable improvements in citizens’ welfare rather than allowing early election calculations to dominate political discussions.
The bishop’s comments come as political activities surrounding the 2027 general election continue to intensify, with politicians and political groups increasingly discussing possible alliances, campaign strategies and the performance of the current administration.
Tinubu, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, is approaching the final year of his first four-year presidential term. The next general election is expected to determine whether he secures another term in office.
However, Amah argued that political ambitions should not overshadow the responsibility of addressing the economic and security concerns affecting households across the country.
The cleric specifically criticised what he described as the activities of “commercial politicians”, whom he accused of misleading the President with assurances intended to preserve their influence within the government.
He said such political associates could give the impression that the country was making sufficient progress even when many citizens continued to struggle with rising living costs and security threats.
“The propaganda by commercial politicians will not help Mr President. They are deceiving him by giving him the impression that all is well just to maintain their positions in government,” Amah said.
The bishop further questioned the willingness of political allies to communicate difficult realities to the President, suggesting that concerns about losing appointments or political influence could discourage honest conversations within the administration.
He argued that leaders should be surrounded by people willing to provide frank assessments of government policies and their effects on the population.
Amah also challenged claims that Nigerians were broadly satisfied with the administration’s performance, pointing to continuing economic difficulties as a reason for caution.
He expressed surprise that some individuals he considered knowledgeable and experienced continued to defend the government’s record despite the hardships confronting many citizens.
“When I watch people that you think are wise and intelligent in this country coming out to defend the failure called the present government of Nigeria, it amazes me,” he said.
The bishop’s intervention adds to the public debate over the relationship between governance and electoral ambition ahead of the 2027 polls.
Nigeria’s economic direction, the cost of living and persistent insecurity remain important issues in discussions about the administration’s performance. The extent to which government policies can translate into improved living conditions is likely to remain central to public assessments of the President’s first term.
Amah urged political leaders to acknowledge these challenges and provide the President with realistic advice rather than assurances designed to strengthen their own political positions.
He maintained that honest assessments of the country’s circumstances would give the administration a better opportunity to address public concerns before the next election.
The bishop’s remarks represent his assessment of the government’s performance and the priorities it should pursue. They also highlight the continuing debate over whether political leaders should focus on securing another term or first demonstrate progress on the commitments made to citizens.
As the 2027 election approaches, the administration will face continued scrutiny from political opponents, civil society groups, religious leaders and members of the public over its handling of economic and security challenges.
For Amah, the immediate priority should be clear: Tinubu should concentrate on governing, address the difficulties confronting Nigerians and establish a record of achievements before asking voters for another mandate.
