A prominent leader of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, has dismissed Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume’s claim that there is “no vacancy in Aso Rock” in 2027.
Recall that Akume recently asserted that President Bola Tinubu is expected to complete two terms in office, calling on the North to wait until 2031.
In an published interview at the weekend, Galadima described Akumes remarks as self-serving, suggesting the SGF was merely protecting his job. According to him, such declarations hold no ground in a democratic system governed by the Nigerian constitution. There is a big vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027. In fact, according to the Nigerian constitution, nobody occupies that seat in 2027 until the people decide, he asserted.
Galadima criticised the politicisation of the presidency along regional lines, emphasising that leadership should focus on performance rather than zoning. If President Tinubu delivers well and even Seyi, his son, is the best candidate, I have no problem with that. But Nigerians will judge based on what they feel in their bodies come 2027, he stated.
While the NNPP Chieftain expressed his disdain for the North-South dichotomy, he argued that the North had governed Nigeria for fewer years since 1999, when compared to the South. By 2027, the South would have ruled for 18 and a half years, while the North has only ruled for nine and a half years, he stated. However, he maintained that the focus should be on governance rather than regional sentiments. Are we practicing monarchy? Nigerians should vote for who delivers the dividends of democracy.
Galadima alleged attempts by the ruling All-Progressives Congress (APC) to compromise opposition political parties ahead of the 2027 elections. They are sending emissaries to party leaders, offering tens of billions to align with their agenda. They have already decimated the PDP, Labour Party, and APGA, he claimed, insisting that the NNPP would remain resolute. They cant destabilise us; because we are too smart for them. Alhaji Kwankwaso remains their nightmare.
Galadima also criticised President Tinubus legislative tax reform Bills, particularly the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT). He argued that the reforms disproportionately harm ordinary Nigerians. When VAT increases by 1%, prices skyrocket; and it is the ordinary man who suffers. The businessman simply passes on the cost to consumers, he noted.
Amid concerns about the stability of opposition parties, Galadima affirmed the NNPPs unity and readiness for the 2027 elections. He dismissed reports of internal discord, citing them as propaganda sponsored by the APC. We are a united party, and our structure remains intact. Check the INEC website for the facts.
On whether NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso intends to contest the 2027 presidency, Galadima noted that Kwankwaso, like any Nigerian, has a constitutional right to run, saying: If he feels strong enough and has the support, nothing stops him.
Galadima concluded by urging Nigerians to ensure that democracy works in their favor through the ballot box. We must all stand up and ensure that we can change governments through elections. We are not ruled by monarchy; and 2027 will be a day of reckoning for all political actors, he stated.
