26/06/2025
2027: Political Realignments and the Battle for Relevance
By Patrick Adeokhor
Though 2027 may appear distant on the calendar, to Nigerian politicians, it is already around the corner. The political machinery is in motion. Behind the scenes and in public, alignments and realignments are underway. In the game of politics, there are no permanent friends or enemies—only permanent interests.
In recent developments, the South-South geo-political zone has witnessed a significant shift. The Governor of Delta State, along with his cabinet and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, have reportedly decamped from the major opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This move has sent shockwaves across the political landscape, raising questions about strategy, survival, and the quest for relevance.
Political analysts are busy with permutations: can these high-profile defections translate into electoral gains for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027? Can a ruling party under pressure, plagued with economic hardship, insecurity, and public dissatisfaction, hold on to power?
The suffering masses—those bearing the brunt of unpopular economic policies, rising inflation, widespread insecurity, and continuous attacks from killer herders in Benue, communal violence in Plateau, and insurgency in Borno—are beginning to question whether real change is possible within the current political framework.
More troubling for the Tinubu administration is the apparent discontent within the northern political bloc. Many in the North feel marginalized in federal appointments and may express their dissatisfaction at the polls. Speculations are mounting that the President may consider dropping Vice President Kashim Shettima from the 2027 ticket to avoid a repeat of the controversial Muslim-Muslim pairing that attracted nationwide criticism in 2023.
While no official announcement has been made, there are strong indications that the APC is alr
