Former three-term member of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Yusuf, has expressed concerns over the implementation of some policies by the administration of President Bola Tinubu. According to Yusuf, who is also the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Kogi West Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, some of Tinubu's policies are necessary but their implementation has been faulty. He specifically mentioned the simultaneous removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange unification as areas of concern.
Yusuf, with 12 years of experience in public office, including eight years in opposition, believes that Nigeria needs a strong, constructive opposition in the National Assembly. He argues that this opposition should scrutinize government policies and offer credible alternatives rather than merely making noise. Yusuf's comments come as the PDP seeks to rebuild after its 2023 electoral setback. He believes that the party needs to reassess its position and rebuild, with elected representatives and governors playing key roles in repositioning the party ahead of 2031.
The former lawmaker also weighed in on the 2027 presidential election, predicting that Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president, will not succeed in his bid. Yusuf, who had previously predicted Atiku's departure from the PDP and his eventual return, believes that Atiku will contest again in 2031. Yusuf expressed concerns that Atiku appears excessively focused on himself and may be surrounded by people whose loyalty is based more on flattery than on honest counsel.
Yusuf highlighted the importance of building structures and sustaining political relationships in achieving political success. He cited the example of Bola Tinubu's political organisation, which played a significant role in his emergence as president. Yusuf also referenced the history of political sacrifices in Nigeria, where leaders have made strategic decisions to support other political interests.
The PDP candidate for Kogi West Senatorial District also emphasized the need for leaders to be aware of their limitations and the importance of honest counsel. He warned that leaders who are constantly surrounded by sycophants may eventually begin to believe their own narratives and lose touch with reality. Yusuf's comments reflect his experience in politics, where he has won three elections by securing goodwill from people across different polling units.
Yusuf's concerns about Atiku's chances in the 2027 presidential election are based on his analysis of the Nigerian political landscape. He disagrees with the suggestion that any single region can determine the outcome of a presidential election in Nigeria. Yusuf cited the 2011 election, where Goodluck Jonathan won despite not securing 25 per cent of the votes in several northern states.
Finally, Yusuf outlined his legislative priorities, which include contributing to the rebuilding of the PDP and providing a strong, constructive opposition in the National Assembly. With his experience and capacity, Yusuf believes he can make meaningful contributions to the party's repositioning and offer credible alternatives to government policies.
Key points
- Ex-lawmaker Tajudeen Yusuf faults implementation of Tinubu's economic reforms
- Yusuf predicts Atiku Abubakar will not succeed in 2027 presidential bid
- Yusuf emphasizes need for strong opposition in National Assembly
