Former Lawmakers Back Tinubu for 2027, Cite Unity and Justice

A coalition of former federal lawmakers from across Nigeria has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing unity, justice, and fairness as the principles guiding their decision. The endorsement took place at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, at a summit convened by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, who also leads the National Forum of Former Legislators.

The event drew prominent figures from Nigeria’s political landscape, including former Senate President Ken Nnamani, former Speakers of the House of Representatives Patricia Olubunmi Etteh and Yakubu Dogara, several members of the Federal Executive Council, and other distinguished leaders. The presence of such cross-regional representation, organisers noted, underscored the coalition’s emphasis on national unity.

Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Gbajabiamila described the gathering as an “exceptional opportunity for friends, former colleagues and patriots” to collaborate on advancing reforms vital to Nigeria’s development. He highlighted that peace and unity remained indispensable for national progress, stressing that disagreements must be managed with respect and shared purpose.

Tinubu’s Reforms Receive Strong Backing

Gbajabiamila praised President Tinubu’s resolve in advancing bold reforms since assuming office, characterising them as the actions of a statesman rather than a career politician concerned only with electoral victories. “These are acts of extraordinary statesmanship by a leader whose highest concern is the fortune of the Nigerian people and the fate of the next generation,” he remarked.

Among achievements highlighted under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu were the removal of inflated subsidy claims, the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to widen access to higher education, and the enactment of tax reforms designed to enhance fairness and accountability. Gbajabiamila acknowledged, however, that reforming deeply entrenched systems comes at a cost, requiring patience, sacrifice, and endurance from citizens.

The summit’s deliberations, he said, reflected a collective readiness to support the president Tinubu in navigating these challenges while keeping the country’s long-term interest at heart.

Ogun Governor Applauds Forum’s Initiative

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who hosted the summit, commended the convener and participating leaders for demonstrating what he described as a “deep sense of responsibility” toward strengthening Nigeria’s oneness. He emphasised that the convergence of leaders from diverse political and regional backgrounds provided reassurance that unity remained a shared priority despite lingering political differences.

The governor added that such engagements were essential to reinforcing confidence in the democratic process and sustaining reforms aimed at ensuring a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria. He called on other political actors to emulate the commitment shown by the former legislators in putting the country’s interest ahead of personal or partisan gains.