Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made allegations that individuals who opposed former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 are now conspiring against President Bola Tinubu in anticipation of the 2027 general election. Okpebholo made these claims during the flag-off of the Benin-Asaba palliative rehabilitation project. He emphasized that there is no vacancy in Aso Rock and that President Tinubu's eight-year term must be completed.
According to Okpebholo, the individuals who fought against Jonathan in 2015 did so because he wanted to establish Almajiri schools to educate youths and address the Almajiri problem. He stated that these same individuals are now ganging up against President Tinubu to prevent him from serving a second term. Okpebholo did not mention the names of those allegedly conspiring against Tinubu but advised them not to waste their resources on contesting the election.
Okpebholo described President Tinubu as not being a "supermarket man," implying that he is a leader with a vision and not someone who can be easily swayed. He contrasted this with what he termed "supermarket people" who, according to him, want to rule Nigeria but lack the capacity to do so. Okpebholo advised them to wait for their turn and not contest against President Tinubu.
The Edo State Governor also highlighted President Tinubu's achievements, suggesting that if previous leaders had performed as well as Tinubu, there would be less work for him to do now. He expressed confidence in President Tinubu's leadership and urged those who may be planning to contest against him to reconsider their decision.
Okpebholo's comments have sparked reactions across the country, with many Nigerians taking to social media to share their thoughts on the allegations. While some have expressed support for President Tinubu, others have criticized Okpebholo for making political statements that could be seen as divisive.
The 2027 general election is still over three years away, but the political landscape is already beginning to take shape. With several politicians already jockeying for position, Okpebholo's comments are likely to add fuel to the fire. It remains to be seen how President Tinubu and his supporters will respond to these allegations.
Okpebholo's advice to those planning to contest against President Tinubu is to focus on their own political development rather than trying to unseat him. He emphasized that there is no vacancy in Aso Rock and that President Tinubu's term must be allowed to run its course. This statement is likely to be seen as a show of loyalty to President Tinubu and a warning to potential challengers.
Key points
- Okpebholo alleges that those who fought Jonathan in 2015 are now targeting Tinubu.
- He advises would-be challengers not to waste resources contesting against Tinubu.
- Okpebholo expresses confidence in Tinubu's leadership and achievements.
