A Kaduna-based legal practitioner, Al-zubayr Abubakar, has alleged that Tinubu controls key institutions, a development he believes could affect Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections. He argued that the opposition faces a difficult task unless it addresses what he described as growing institutional challenges.
According to Daily Post, Abubakar made the remarks during an interview on Trust TV. He alleged that President Bola Tinubu has “cornered” the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and the judiciary, making it difficult for opposition parties to compete on equal terms.
The lawyer argued that the opposition cannot rely only on public support if it hopes to unseat the ruling party. Instead, he said political parties must prepare to confront what he described as structural obstacles before the next election. He maintained that campaign rallies and public endorsements alone would not be enough to secure victory.
Abubakar also claimed that many opposition politicians underestimate the political advantage the president enjoys through the country’s major institutions. He argued that those seeking power should first understand the realities of Nigeria’s political environment before developing their electoral strategies.
Furthermore, he warned that failing to address these concerns could weaken public confidence in the democratic process. He urged opposition leaders to put aside their differences, build stronger alliances and focus on protecting democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 polls.
He further maintained that Tinubu controls key institutions, insisting that this gives the ruling party an edge over its political rivals. According to him, the opposition must remain united and develop practical strategies if it hopes to compete effectively in the next general election.
Meanwhile, his comments have added to the ongoing debate over the independence of Nigeria’s electoral body, security agencies and the judiciary as political parties begin preparing for the 2027 elections. The presidency and the institutions mentioned have not responded to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
