From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
A political activist and public affairs commentator, Comrade Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, has urged Nigerians to look beyond ethnic, religious, and personality-driven politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He emphasized that the contest must center on competence, capacity, and proven results.
In a press statement issued in Kaduna yesterday, Alawuje said the 2027 election “is not simply about replacing one individual with another,” but about selecting a leader with the vision to address Nigeria’s complex economic, security, and developmental challenges.
Using a proverb to stress his point, Alawuje said: “A person who cannot milk the cow may nevertheless have the capacity to spill the milk that has already been collected.
“We should not hand the Nigerian ‘bucket’ to anyone just because they promise change. Just as we would not knowingly give a vehicle to someone who lacks the necessary knowledge and driving experience, the presidency should not be a testing ground for political experimentation.”
The activist explicitly called on Nigerians to carefully evaluate the qualifications of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, as well as all other presidential contenders, before entrusting them with the leadership of the nation.
“The question is not whether they have the constitutional right to run for office.
“The real question is whether they have convincingly demonstrated the capacity and practical competence needed to lead Nigeria effectively,” Alawuje asserted.
He posed four key questions to guide voters in 2027: “Who can milk the cow? Who can preserve the milk? Who can increase the milk in the bucket? And who can be trusted not to spill what has already been produced?”
Alawuje observed that while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration should not be above criticism, accountability should not be used as an excuse to hinder genuine progress.
He stated that Nigerians must demand corrections when policies cause hardship, while also safeguarding the gains already achieved.
“Opposition parties and presidential hopefuls must be allowed to present their alternatives.
“But Nigerians must demand clear answers: What is your economic plan? How will you finance your promises?
“How will you improve national security? How will you create jobs? How will you strengthen institutions? And what evidence demonstrates that you can deliver better results?” he asked.
The Kaduna-based analyst emphasized that “Nigeria is bigger than Tinubu, Atiku or Obi” and that loyalty must be to the nation, not to individuals or political parties.
“We must choose: Competence over popularity. Capacity over slogans. Character over propaganda. Results over promises. Nigeria over personal ambition,” he declared.
Alawuje added that the “Nigerian bucket does not belong to Tinubu. It does not belong to Atiku. It does not belong to Obi. It belongs to the Nigerian people.”
He urged voters to objectively examine every candidate by comparing their records, policies, competence, and character.
He also called for holding those in power accountable and expecting credible alternatives from those seeking office.
“2027 is too important for Nigeria to get wrong. Choose wisely. Protect progress. Demand accountability. Put Nigeria first,” Alawuje concluded.
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