In a stark assessment of Nigeria's political landscape, a prominent opposition figure has declared that the prevailing hunger and economic hardship, rather than political maneuvering, will be the decisive factor in the 2027 general elections. Chief Niyi Aborisade, a United Kingdom-based human rights lawyer and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), issued this warning while alleging a deliberate plot by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to cripple opposition parties.
PDP Grappling with Existential Crisis
Chief Aborisade, in an interview published on December 29, 2025, expressed deep concern over the state of his party. He described the PDP as struggling with an unprecedented level of internal conflict that threatens its very existence. The party is facing what can only be described as an existential crisis, with factions deeply entrenched and reconciliation efforts repeatedly failing.
He lamented that the crisis has created so much uncertainty that many members doubt the PDP's ability to even present candidates in future elections. This uncertainty, he argued, is fatal for any political organisation, as it destroys the capacity to mobilise members, raise funds, or inspire voter confidence.
The "Drummer" Behind the Opposition's Woes
Aborisade went beyond internal party analysis to point an accusing finger at the ruling party. Using a Yoruba proverb, he suggested that the visible crisis within the PDP is being orchestrated by a hidden "drummer." He identified this drummer as the APC-led Federal Government and the Presidency.
He cited a clear pattern of defections, noting that serving minister Nyesom Wike operates under the APC government while claiming PDP membership. He also highlighted the defection of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and governors from Plateau and Taraba states from the PDP directly to the APC. This is not a coincidence; it is orchestration, Aborisade asserted, arguing the objective is to weaken the PDP until it can no longer function as a credible presidential-level opposition.
Economic Reality Trumps Political Strategy
The PDP chieftain presented a counter-narrative to the APC's apparent strength. He argued that the ruling party's aggressive absorption of opposition governors is a defensive strategy born of fear, not strength. He painted a grim picture of the national condition under the APC, highlighting:
- Widespread economic hardship and crushing inflation.
- Catastrophic depreciation of the Naira, from about ₦500 to the British pound in 2023 to nearly ₦2,000 at the time of the interview.
- Deteriorating infrastructure and deplorable roads.
- Deep public dissatisfaction, hunger, and anger.
Hunger is stronger than money, Aborisade declared, drawing a biblical parallel to the failure of money in Egypt. He believes Nigerians are reaching a point where survival instincts will outweigh financial inducements at the ballot box. When people are pushed beyond endurance, money and intimidation lose their power, he stated, suggesting that electoral manipulation could trigger widespread unrest.
A Warning on Emergency Powers and the Future
Aborisade also expressed concern over a recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the state of emergency in Rivers State. He described the judgment as deeply troubling and creating a dangerous precedent for the selective use of emergency powers against opposition states. He recalled the 1962 emergency in the Western Region as a historical example of such abuse.
Despite the grim analysis, Aborisade concluded with a note of resilience for Nigeria's democracy. Nigeria will survive this crisis, he affirmed, but stressed that democracy must be protected, economic hardship must not be ignored, and the will of the people must remain supreme. He firmly believes that no amount of power, money, or intimidation can permanently silence the Nigerian electorate, who will have the final say in 2027.
