Osun victory signals 2027 battle, more participation – Timi Frank

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has described Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory in the Osun State governorship election as a demonstration of the power of the people and a possible pointer to the 2027 general elections.

Frank, in a statement in Abuja, said the outcome showed that citizens could overcome political pressure and other odds when they remained determined to defend their choices at the polls.

He said the result should serve as a warning that the outcome of the 2027 presidential election would ultimately be determined by Nigerian voters.

“President Tinubu may think he already has his election results in mind, but ultimately, it is the Nigerian people who will decide his fate through the power of their votes,” he said.

Frank, who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, urged opposition parties to unite ahead of 2027, saying a coordinated effort would be necessary to challenge the ruling APC.

He also called on Nigerians to remain vigilant throughout the electoral process, urging them to vote, remain at polling units and ensure that their votes are properly counted.

“Let 2027 not be business as usual. They must vote, stay, and see their votes counted, just as they have done in Osun,” he said.

Frank commended Osun voters for what he described as their political ingenuity, for rejecting inducements and voting according to their conscience.

He said: “I commend the people of Osun for this new political ingenuity, where money is taken, yet still voted for the candidate of their choice. After all, the money belongs to us as citizens, as it was taken from government coffers.”

He urged Nigerians to remain peaceful but resolute in protecting their votes through lawful and democratic means, particularly in the face of alleged harassment and intimidation.

Frank also commended Nigerian music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, for what he described as his commitment to electoral integrity.

He urged Nigerian youths and celebrities to emulate Davido by taking an active interest in the country’s democratic process rather than remaining on the sidelines.

“Going into 2027, I call on Nigerian youths and celebrities alike to borrow a leaf from Davido, as this is not the time to sit on the fence. Nigeria belongs to all of us,” he said.

Frank congratulated Adeleke, his supporters and the people of Osun State, saying the election had reaffirmed the importance of citizens’ participation in democracy.

He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the electoral process, arguing that political power ultimately belongs to the people and that leadership should reflect their will.

“As we look towards 2027, let us remain peaceful, vigilant, informed, and determined. Let us encourage one another to participate actively in the electoral process and to defend our votes through lawful and democratic means,” he said.

Frank added: “The time has come for Nigerians to believe again. The time has come for the people to rise, vote, and protect their votes. The time has come to choose wisely.”

He said the Osun election should inspire Nigerians to participate actively in the 2027 elections and work towards building a country that serves the interests of all citizens.