2027 political realignments will be fierce —  Shehu

Prominent activist and whistleblower, Mahdi Shehu, has offered a provocative glimpse into potential political alliances that may shape Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, warning citizens to brace for what he described as “a fierce and unpredictable political battle.”

In a post shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Shehu outlined a range of speculative power pairings across major political parties, signaling that high-stakes maneuvering and unexpected alliances may define the road to the next presidential contest.

For the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Shehu pointed to several possible ticket formations, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu retaining his current deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima.

He also floated other unconventional pairings such as Tinubu with former Borno State Governor Modu Ali Sheriff, Tinubu with former Speaker Yakubu Dogara, and even a surprising mention of a Tinubu and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah ticket — a theoretical combination likely intended to spark discussion around bridging religious divides.

Turning to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Shehu suggested that a coalition between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, could emerge as a formidable opposition force.

In the Labour Party (LP), Shehu speculated on a series of possible alliances involving Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential candidate. These include Obi joining forces with former Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal, a partnership with former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, or sticking with his 2023 running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed.

READ ALSO: 2027: Peter Obi’s return to PDP imminent as Party bows to zoning pressure

Shehu also highlighted scenarios within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), naming potential tickets such as former President Goodluck Jonathan with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Jonathan with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde with Bala Mohammed, and former FCT Minister Nyesom Wike with Kwankwaso.

However, the activist warned that regardless of the combinations, “the devil will be an interested party,” implying that behind-the-scenes political interests, betrayal, and intense lobbying will play a significant role in shaping outcomes.

He emphasized the importance of civic vigilance, urging Nigerians to secure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and avoid being swayed by deceptive political tactics.

“Nigerians must prepare well,” Shehu wrote. “Beyond party lines, these elections will be brutal. It will be a season of unpredictable alliances, deep calculations, and strategic deception.”

As the 2027 race remains several years away, Mahdi Shehu’s predictions have sparked early conversations about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy and the possible emergence of cross-party coalitions to challenge the status quo.