LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Special Assistant on Public Communication to African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, has said Nigerians will decide the 2027 presidential election, following the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Riliwanu Akiolu.
Shaibu made the remark on Monday in a statement issued in Lagos, where he responded to the traditional ruler’s endorsement of Tinubu. He said while the Oba was entitled to his opinion, the decision on who leads Nigeria in 2027 rests with the Nigerian people, not with any individual or traditional institution.
“The Oba of Lagos is a respected traditional ruler, and he is entitled to his opinion. But the 2027 election will be decided by the Nigerian people, not by any individual or group. The power to choose the next president lies with the electorate, and no amount of endorsement can substitute for the will of the people,” Shaibu stated.
The aide said Atiku remained focused on presenting his agenda to Nigerians and would not be distracted by endorsements or political manoeuvres. He noted that the former vice president had a track record of economic management and national development, and that his policies would address the challenges facing the country.
“The Oba of Lagos is entitled to his opinion, but Nigerians are the ones who will decide who becomes their president in 2027. Atiku Abubakar is confident that when Nigerians compare the records and the visions of the candidates, they will choose the candidate who has the experience, the competence, and the integrity to lead the country,” Shaibu said.
The Oba of Lagos had, during a visit by Tinubu to his palace on Sunday, publicly endorsed the president for a second term, describing him as “the best man for the job.” He said Tinubu had demonstrated leadership and commitment to the development of Lagos and Nigeria, and urged Nigerians to support his re-election.
“I have known him for many years. He is a man of vision and courage. He has done well, and I believe he deserves a second term to continue his good work,” the Oba was quoted as saying.
The endorsement has sparked mixed reactions across the political landscape. While supporters of the president have praised the Oba’s intervention, critics have argued that traditional rulers should remain neutral in partisan politics and that their endorsements could undermine their credibility as impartial fathers to all.
Shaibu also addressed the ongoing debate over the 2027 election, noting that Atiku’s campaign was focused on issues that matter to Nigerians, including the economy, security, infrastructure, and education. He said the former vice president would continue to engage with voters across the country and to present his policies.
“Our campaign is not about endorsements; it is about ideas and solutions. Atiku Abubakar is offering a clear alternative to the current administration, and Nigerians will make their choice based on the merits of our proposals,” he said.
Political analysts say the endorsement by the Oba of Lagos could boost Tinubu’s support in the South-West, particularly in Lagos, which is a key battleground state. However, they also caution that traditional rulers’ endorsements do not always translate into electoral success, as voters increasingly make their decisions based on their own assessments of candidates and their records.
As the 2027 elections approach, the contest is shaping up to be a fierce battle between Tinubu’s APC and the opposition, with Atiku’s ADC and Peter Obi’s NDC seeking to present a united front. For now, the battle for endorsements and the support of traditional institutions is likely to intensify as political actors seek to gain an advantage. But as Shaibu emphasised, the ultimate decision belongs to the Nigerian people.
