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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong warning to political opponents eyeing the 2027 presidential election, declaring that he will not surrender power without a contest and that the race will be fought to the finish line.
Speaking on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, while receiving the leadership of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the President stated: “Those who would take it from me will try. They will try. All is fair in politics, and there is equal opportunity. I won’t offer them a red carpet. I won’t offer them the leash to tie me at home. No, we will wrestle each other to the finishing point. That’s the truth. That is fair in politics.”
President Tinubu emphasised that democracy provides a level playing field and that every contender is free to compete. He firmly rejected suggestions of bias against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing the electoral body as neutral.
“INEC is neutral. It has never, ever intimidated anybody. If political opponents are crying wolf, then they are afraid of their own shadows and the uncertainty in the company they keep,” the President added.
The remarks were made during a meeting with the CBCN, led by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso. Beyond politics, the President also briefed the bishops on progress in economic stabilisation, education, and ongoing efforts to strengthen national security.
President Tinubu’s statement signals his readiness for a robust democratic contest in 2027 and reaffirms his administration’s commitment to free, fair, and competitive elections under the guidance of a neutral electoral umpire.