Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has dismissed the 2027 presidential ambitions of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, insisting that neither opposition figure has the political structure or grassroots support across Northern Nigeria to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje has declared that President Bola Tinubu remains the politician to beat ahead of the 2027 general election, arguing that the opposition lacks the regional strength required to mount a successful challenge.
Speaking at a political gathering in Kano, Ganduje said both Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have failed to build the kind of grassroots political network in Northern Nigeria that has historically determined the outcome of presidential elections.
According to Ganduje, Northern Nigeria remains the country’s largest voting bloc and continues to play a decisive role in presidential contests.
He argued that while both Atiku and Obi enjoy support in parts of the country, neither has the political machinery across the North capable of overcoming the APC’s established structures ahead of the 2027 polls.
The former Kano governor expressed confidence that President Tinubu would secure another term, citing the APC’s nationwide political network, incumbency advantage and existing support base across several northern states.
Ganduje maintained that the ruling party remains firmly positioned despite ongoing political realignments among opposition parties.
His comments come as opposition parties continue repositioning ahead of the 2027 election, with several prominent politicians seeking new alliances and fresh platforms.
Political analysts say the months ahead are likely to witness more defections, coalition talks and campaign activities as parties prepare for what is expected to be another highly competitive presidential race.
While Ganduje believes Tinubu enjoys a significant advantage, the strength of the opposition will ultimately be tested when campaigns formally begin. For now, his remarks add another voice to the growing debate over who holds the strongest political structure ahead of the 2027 presidential election.