Tinubu’s Strategic Moves: Pardons, Grassroots Support, and the 2027 Race -By Tife Owolabi

Gradually, and with careful precision, President Tinubu is inching closer to winning the hearts of the masses. His strategic pardons here and there are beginning to shape public perception. If his efforts to rejuvenate oil production in Ogoniland succeed, it will be a monumental achievement—one that has eluded many for decades—and the international community will no doubt recognize him for this singular triumph.

In his bid to secure his legacy, the president’s daughter, Iya-lo Ja, who serves as the president-general, is tirelessly engaging market women, laying the groundwork for his political comeback. Her efforts are not only focused on mobilizing support for her father’s policies but also on solidifying the grassroots network needed for future elections.

Meanwhile, Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, isn’t sitting idly by. Unlike the detached image often associated with political offspring, he’s actively working to build trust among the youth—an increasingly powerful voting bloc. Seyi is not just securing his father’s base; he’s focusing on the future, planting the seeds for his father’s re-election bid. His actions indicate that he is serious about solidifying his family’s political influence for years to come, contrary to the image of apathy sometimes seen in children of political elites.

While there is ongoing criticism regarding the president’s economic performance, Tinubu seems unfazed. As some have pointed out, despite his poor public approval ratings, he is positioning his inner circle to ensure a favorable outcome in the 2027 elections. “Tinubu’s abysmal economic performance and poor public perception won’t stop him from winning the 2027 election with a landslide,” akeen observer. “The key figures—INEC chairman, Chief Justice of Nigeria, IGP, DG DSS, Chief of Army Staff, all from the same ethnic bloc—are already lined up to ensure this.”

However, I remain optimistic about Nigeria’s future. I believe the people’s will can make a difference. Although the system has long been divided by tribalism, religion, and corruption, these factors should no longer hold us back. If we can rise above them and make our votes count, we will triumph over the forces that divide us and usher in a government that truly represents the people’s desires.

While the opposition is still trying to organize itself, it’s clear that the race to 2027 has already begun, with President Tinubu leading the way. This time, he is determined and will not be deterred by any distractions. His path to victory is deliberate and unshakable. No hands will shake and no Blubala will sound.

To be continued…

Tife Owolabi is a Researcher in Development Studies and writes from Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

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