Abuja, Nigeria — Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, a former 2019 presidential candidate, reflects on Nigeria’s shifting political landscape, emphasizing the pursuit of power and the growing importance of strategic alliances.
Recent statements from prominent figures, such as Peter Obi, have sparked discussions about the conditions under which political alliances can be forged. According to reports, Obi has emphasized that any alliance he considers, “must prioritize addressing pressing problems before he would join for the sake of power.”
This stance raises several important questions about the nature of political alliances and the priorities of political leaders. Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies noted, “that the decision to form alliances should be guided by a commitment to solving the country’s most pressing issues rather than merely seeking power.”
The importance of addressing pressing problems in Nigeria faces numerous challenges, including economic instability, insecurity, and inadequate infrastructure. Adesanya-Davies added, “Any political alliance that aims to be effective must prioritize these issues and work towards tangible solutions. By focusing on pressing problems, political leaders can ensure that their alliances serve the greater good rather than just individual or party interests.”
Moreover, the role of leadership in shaping alliances cannot be over emphasized in the view of Prof Adesanya-Davies. She stated, “Leadership plays a critical role in determining the success of political alliances. Leaders like Peter Obi, who emphasize the need to address pressing problems, demonstrate a commitment to principled governance. Their stance can inspire confidence in the political process and encourage other leaders to prioritize the needs of the people.”
On the ongoing issue, “Omoyele Sowore, a former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in 2019, has warned that, “the current coalition negotiations among opposition leaders might actually increase President Bola Tinubu’s chances of winning a second term rather than seriously jeopardize his reelection campaign,” during a Tuesday appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sowore made the case that the coalition projects being pushed are ineffective because they lack a clear vision and a solid ideological basis.
He explains, “that what they were doing would only make it simpler for Tinubu to run for politics again. They are obstructing the development of an oppressed people’s movement that is truly grassroots. Many Nigerians are being deceived into thinking that these individuals are fighting for them.” He expanciates. “Since such coalitions lack a clear purpose or belief system, they cannot bring about change,” he said, dismissing the current alliance-building attempts as meaningless and unfocused. It is the coalition that is isolated, not me personally. They therefore find it difficult to even get together or agree on a political plamostform.
He asserts, “The fact that they are already discussing starting a new party demonstrates how isolated they are. Without a guiding ideology, each alliance is already on its own. Without conviction, honesty, or character, a coalition cannot be seen credible.” Sowore continued. “As political players prepare for the general elections in 2027, his comments coincide with an increase in political activity and realignments. With recent meetings with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who just defected from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has assumed the lead in mobilizing the opposition. However, citing worries about the possible danger to the party’s internal unity, the PDP Governors’ Forum has disassociated itself from the current negotiations.”
Amid these events, he stated, “Obi has made it clear that he will not join any alliance formed solely for seizing power, insisting that any merger must address Nigeria’s deeper governance problems.” Providing a different viewpoint, Sowore exhorted people to take charge of the nation’s political future and see past coalitions led by the elite. People need to understand that the only viable path forward is the one they design for themselves. We must take a different course. “Nigerians would find themselves in a worse predicament if they continue to let all of this chatter about coalitions and alliances divert them. Since the return to civilian governance, that has been Nigeria’s pattern,” he said.
In conclusion, Adesanya-Davies recommends, “As Nigeria continues to navigate its complex political landscape, the formation of alliances that prioritize pressing problems is crucial. By focusing on meaningful solutions rather than mere power grabs, political leaders can work towards a more prosperous and stable future for the country.” “The stance taken by leaders like Peter Obi serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and purpose in political decision-making,” she added.
Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, a Nigerian former female Presidential Candidate is a Professor of Applied Linguistics, a Political Analyst and a Public Commentator.
