Presidency asks Atiku, el-Rufai, others to wait till 2027 to test popularity

• Last week, el-Rufai was vocal in his critics about the APC.
• Atiku also alleged the APC adminstration of paying oppositions of N50M to destabilise their panties.

The presidency has urged opposition figures to postpone their bids for popularity until the 2027 general election.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, made this statement in an X post on Saturday night.

The presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have faced intense criticism for allegedly instigating crises within opposition parties.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar alleged that Tinubu paid N50 million to opposition members to destabilize the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a claim the APC vehemently denied.

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, an APC chieftain and former Kaduna governor, described the current state of governance and opposition as a “national emergency.”

El-Rufai spoke at a national conference in Abuja on Monday, urging opposition parties to unite and challenge the ruling party.

However, Dare advised opposition figures to wait for the next general election to demonstrate their strength.

He stated, “While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was away in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, his opponents revealed their true intentions.”

“Indeed, while the President sought solutions to Nigeria’s energy problems, some individuals were fueling tensions.”

“Expectedly, the gathering was convened to spread ill-will, offering nothing new beyond the usual opposition rhetoric.”

“Some participants went too far, promoting undemocratic actions.”

“These political figures have well-known track records. We urge Nigerians to scrutinize them early and choose between genuine progressives and mere critics.”

“The stage is set for the future. The battle begins soon.”

“Until then, President Tinubu remains focused on improving the lives of Nigerians and building a resilient economy.”

“This is 2025, not 2027. Let those seeking popularity wait for the next election. President Tinubu is committed to transforming our country.”