The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dayo Ogungbenro, has called on Nigerians to begin considering alternatives to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing doubts about the administration’s ability to improve the country’s economic and security situation.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with PrimeStar News Online, Ogungbenro questioned Tinubu’s suitability for the nation’s highest office and raised concerns over what he described as unresolved controversies surrounding the president’s background and identity.
“With the greatest respect to Bola Tinubu, everything about him is shrouded in secrecy,” he said.
According to him, individuals aspiring to occupy the presidency should be subjected to the highest levels of public scrutiny and transparency, given the enormous responsibilities attached to the office.
Ogungbenro also expressed pessimism about the prospects of the Tinubu administration delivering significant improvements in the lives of Nigerians.
When asked whether the government’s reforms would lead to economic recovery, better living standards and improved security, he responded that such outcomes were “not very likely.”
The analyst maintained that democracy thrives on accountability and periodic assessment of elected leaders, stressing that citizens have a constitutional right to seek alternatives when governments fail to meet expectations.
“We must all think of an alternative to Bola Tinubu. That is the beauty of democracy,” he said.
He argued that democratic systems are designed to enable voters to evaluate the performance of those in power and either renew their mandate or replace them through elections.
Ogungbenro, however, expressed concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process, alleging that election manipulation remains a major challenge to democratic development.
“Our elections are rigged,” he asserted.
The astute politician further stated that developments across the country do not inspire confidence that the 2027 elections would be conducted under conditions that guarantee a free and fair contest.
Drawing comparisons with the 2015 presidential election, Ogungbenro praised former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari before the final announcement of results.
He said Jonathan’s action strengthened democratic culture in Nigeria and demonstrated a commitment to peaceful transfer of power.
According to him, the political atmosphere under the current administration is generating concerns about the shrinking space for opposition politics.
Ogungbenro accused the government of taking actions that many observers interpret as attempts to weaken opposition parties and consolidate political power.
“Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. There is no way a one-party state can thrive,” he said.
He warned that any effort to undermine political pluralism could erode public confidence in democratic institutions and weaken the country’s democratic foundations.
The analyst urged Nigerians to remain committed to defending democratic values, insisting that transparency, accountability and genuine political competition remain essential to the nation’s future stability and development.
