President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to dominate Nigeria's political landscape, drawing both intense criticism and cautious acknowledgment of his influence. While not a supporter, the author reflects on how Tinubu, once a relatively unknown figure in national politics, now sets the agenda, with others reacting to his moves. Questions are raised about the silence of political actors, particularly in Lagos, as Tinubu built a nationwide network over the years. The piece notes that 2027 is approaching quickly, underscoring the need for a clear and constructive opposition to shape future political direction. The author insists that while Tinubu is not a messiah, he is the country's president and deserves prayers for wisdom, citing the Yoruba saying: "irorun igi ni irorun eiye." At the same time, a strong opposition is necessary for democracy to function. Political illiteracy among Nigerians is identified as a major obstacle, enabling manipulation and divisive rhetoric. The writer rejects the notion that Nigeria cannot improve, insisting that the country has credible, decent people and that collective effort can lead to national renewal.
Tinubu's grip on Nigeria's political narrative exposes how little substantive opposition exists, not due to his strength alone but because rivals have failed to organise meaningfully since 2023. The observation that many Nigerians believe the country cannot get better reflects a crisis of confidence that no single leader can fix. This mindset, more than any policy failure, enables the status quo to persist unchecked.
