LAGOS: As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, prominent elder statesman, Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, has issued a strong warning to key opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi.
Speaking in a statement released from Lagos on Saturday, Onitiri cautioned these influential figures against making moves or comments that could inflame political tensions or destabilize the nation’s fragile democracy.
As one of the original democrats who stood firm against military tyranny during the 1993–1994 pro-democracy struggle, I cannot remain silent while some politicians engage in actions that may open the door to anti-democratic forces, Onitiri stated.
He urged political actors, especially those in the opposition, to exercise restraint and demonstrate statesmanship in their conduct, warning that the current political climate does not support reckless ambition or inflammatory rhetoric.
Onitiri expressed concern that rising political posturing, particularly as it relates to the 2027 elections, could erode the progress made since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule.
We committed democrats will not fold our arms while our citizens continue to suffer from hunger, poverty, and insecurity. Now is the time for leaders to show maturity, not incite instability.
The elder statesman specifically condemned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s alleged efforts to seek judicial intervention from an American court to challenge the legitimacy of President Bola Tinubu ahead of 2027.
Describing the move as “unnecessary, ill-advised, and unacceptable to most Nigerians,” Onitiri argued that such actions only deepen division and distract from governance. Dragging Nigeria’s internal political matters before foreign courts send the wrong message and undermines national sovereignty.
The opposition should focus on constructive criticism and allow the President to concentrate on delivering the dividends of democracy.
Onitiri also appealed to both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties to rise above partisanship and work together in tackling Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
According to him, the current economic and security realities demand cooperation, not confrontation. Since assuming office in 2023, this administration has been grappling with inherited issues. It’s time for all hands to be on deck. We need healing, not hostility.
Concluding his remarks, Chief Onitiri emphasized that Nigeria’s future depends on the collective responsibility of its leaders to protect democracy, promote peace, and put national interest above personal or party gains.
