An All Progressives Congress campaign strategist has challenged opposition politicians, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other political rivals, to study President Bola Tinubu’s political methods instead of blaming the ruling party for their setbacks.
Showunmi, a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Committee involved in Tinubu’s re-election effort, made the remarks during a visit to the Kaduna State Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists on Sunday, October 25. He argued that opposition parties should strengthen their internal structures, improve organisation and take responsibility for their own political challenges.
The comments come as Nigeria’s political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general election. Tinubu’s campaign launch in Kaduna has already triggered exchanges between the ruling party and opposition leaders over economic hardship, insecurity and the government’s record.
Showunmi also urged journalists to resist misinformation and avoid allowing political campaigns to inflame ethnic or religious tensions. His comments highlighted the responsibility of both political actors and the media to keep election debates focused on issues rather than divisive rhetoric.
The strategist’s challenge reflects a wider argument within Nigerian politics: should opposition parties concentrate on criticising the government, or spend more time strengthening their own structures and presenting a clear alternative?
In reality, effective opposition politics requires both scrutiny of the government and credible organisation. Political parties must be able to explain what they would do differently, select candidates through trusted processes and connect their policies to the concerns of ordinary voters.
The APC, meanwhile, will be keen to use its national political network and campaign machinery to defend Tinubu’s record and seek another term. Opposition parties face the task of persuading voters that they can offer a more convincing direction for the country.
With the election drawing closer, the debate is likely to become more intense. Whether the opposition accepts the advice or dismisses it as political provocation, the real test will be its ability to organise effectively and earn voters’ trust.
