Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, has dismissed opposition efforts to unseat the President in 2027, calling them “a political illusion” and asserting that no viable challenger currently exists who can match Tinubu’s political machinery or track record.
Speaking during a media appearance on Sunday, Fasua said the President’s performance in office—especially in stabilizing the economy and pushing through structural reforms—will make him nearly impossible to beat at the polls. He framed opposition parties’ ambitions as largely aspirational and lacking the substance or cohesion needed to pose a serious threat.
“President Tinubu is the man to beat in 2027,” Fasua declared. “There is no strong opposition candidate on the horizon who has the reach, influence, and political capital to unseat him.”
The aide pointed to recent reforms in the petroleum and currency sectors, as well as renewed efforts to attract foreign investment, as signs of progress under Tinubu’s leadership. He also noted the administration’s willingness to make difficult economic choices as evidence of a long-term vision that will yield results before the next election cycle.
Unsurprisingly, members of the opposition were quick to reject Fasua’s remarks. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Labour Party described the aide’s comments as “arrogant and dismissive of Nigerians’ real frustrations.” The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) also responded, saying it is premature to rule out any party or candidate before the electoral campaign has even begun.
“This kind of confidence often blinds incumbents to real voter sentiment,” said PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba. “Nigerians will speak in 2027, and it won’t be based on spin—it’ll be based on results.”
Analysts believe Fasua’s comments may be more than just political chest-thumping—they could be a deliberate effort to set the tone early for 2027 by framing the election as a one-horse race, thereby demoralizing the opposition and consolidating support within the ruling party.
“It’s a smart messaging tactic,” said political commentator Ijeoma Ude. “If the APC can convince its base that Tinubu is unstoppable, it reduces internal dissent and discourages other parties from putting serious money behind a challenger.”
Despite the confidence from within the Presidency, the political terrain remains volatile. Tinubu’s economic policies have drawn mixed reactions, with many Nigerians still grappling with inflation, job losses, and a weak naira. His ability to deliver tangible improvements across sectors will likely shape the real conversation as 2027 approaches.
Fasua’s remarks reflect the administration’s bullish outlook on its prospects. But elections, especially in a democracy as unpredictable as Nigeria’s, are rarely won this far ahead of time. While Tinubu may hold the advantage of incumbency, the real test will be whether voters feel the benefits of his leadership by the time they return to the ballot box.
