Chief Bisi Akande, the pioneer Interim Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has issued a warning against the return of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to power in the upcoming 2027 elections, stating that it would result in further suffering for Nigerians. Akande expressed his concerns regarding the opposition parties’ proposal to form a coalition and dislodge the ruling APC at the federal level, emphasizing that such a coalition would not provide relief from the current hardships experienced by Nigerians.
During an interaction with journalists in Ila Orangun, Osun State on Saturday, which was part of the activities commemorating his 85th birthday anniversary, Akande responded to a question about the opposition parties’ plan to form a coalition with the aim of defeating the ruling APC at the national level.
It should be noted that Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 general elections, had previously expressed his willingness to lead a coalition against the APC in the 2027 election.
However, Akande, who led a coalition of opposition parties as the Interim National Chairman of the APC, successfully defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 general election, believed that returning the PDP to power would mean a continuation of suffering for Nigerians. He argued that the PDP was rejected in the past because it lacked direction and failed to address the needs of the people.
Akande further emphasized that the process of repairing the damages inflicted on the country over the years would not be the same under the leadership of different individuals. He highlighted the differences between President Buhari and Bola Tinubu, stating that their backgrounds and advisors were distinct, which would inevitably have varying effects on society. Akande acknowledged that both leaders had their imperfections, but their approaches to governance and management of the country’s challenges would differ due to their unique perspectives.
Regarding the current economic hardship in Nigeria, Akande expressed his belief that the desired change in fortune would depend on the citizens themselves rather than solely relying on the leadership in power. He emphasized that a society’s ability to work hard and embrace a strong work ethic formed the foundation for progress and development. Akande stated that the fate of Nigerians could only change if individuals took responsibility and actively contributed to their society, regardless of which political party they supported.
In conclusion, Chief Bisi Akande cautioned against the return of the PDP to power, warning that it would lead to continued suffering for Nigerians. He emphasized the importance of citizens’ active participation and hard work in bringing about positive change in the country, regardless of the political leadership in charge.