The Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, has expressed skepticism about the future of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 elections. While he acknowledged that the formation of coalitions among opposition leaders is healthy for Nigeria’s democracy, he questioned the long-term viability of such alliances.
Speaking after casting his vote at Elizabeth Fowler Memorial Primary School in Surulere during the local government elections in Lagos, Gbajabiamila said, “There has to be some level of opposition in a democracy. However, for whatever the coalition is worth, I am not sure where it will go — that is, if it will go anywhere.”
He emphasized the importance of a vibrant and credible opposition to maintain a healthy democracy and guard against a one-party system.
On the local government elections, Gbajabiamila praised the peaceful conduct of the polls and urged Nigerians to actively participate in grassroots democracy, noting that effective governance begins at the local level.
Backing full local government autonomy, he welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling supporting decentralization and grassroots empowerment. “The challenge lies in execution and implementation. But in time, autonomy will be fully realized,” he stated.
Gbajabiamila also expressed concern over low voter turnout, attributing it to the general lack of awareness about the significance of local government elections. “Many do not understand the importance of local government elections,” he added.
His comments reflect both support for democratic plurality and a cautionary view on the prospects of emerging political movements.
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