2027: Opposition Is Disappearing—Banwo

Political commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has raised concerns over what he describes as the gradual weakening of opposition forces in Nigeria, warning that the trend could shape the outcome of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement, Banwo said the opposition appears to be “fading into irrelevance,” noting that it is neither reorganising nor presenting a clear alternative to the ruling government.

According to him, the situation raises a critical question about whether the development is due to the political strength of President Bola Tinubu or the inability of opposition actors to effectively position themselves.

“Something unusual is happening. The opposition is not regrouping or restrategising. It is simply disappearing,” Banwo said.

He acknowledged that President Tinubu has demonstrated strong political capacity over the years, citing his role in building alliances that ended the Peoples Democratic Party’s 16-year rule and his eventual emergence as president in 2023.

Banwo argued that political success in Nigeria is largely driven by structure rather than rhetoric, stressing that elections are won through coordinated grassroots systems.

“Power in Nigeria is not won by noise. It is built through structures across states, local governments, and polling units,” he noted.

The commentator, however, expressed concern that opposition parties appear to be relying heavily on public criticism and media engagement without developing the necessary political machinery.

He further observed that internal divisions and multiple presidential ambitions within opposition ranks could weaken their chances of presenting a united front.

“Removing an incumbent president is difficult anywhere in the world, but even more complex in Nigeria. It requires unity, funding, and strong grassroots coordination,” he said.

Banwo warned that unless opposition leaders address internal fragmentation and articulate a clear national agenda, they risk conceding political advantage ahead of the next election cycle.

He added that the absence of a cohesive opposition could limit democratic competition and reduce electoral choices for Nigerians.