2027: ‘Sit at Your Father’s House if You Don’t Want to Debate’ — Oseni Fires Tinubu, Atiku, Others

Arise Television presenter Rufai Oseni has criticised President Bola Tinubu, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and other political leaders over the debate surrounding candidates’ participation in public debates ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election.

Oseni’s reported remarks, in which he challenged politicians unwilling to debate to “sit at your father’s house”, reflect growing calls for presidential contenders to engage directly with Nigerians on their policies, records and plans for the country.

The debate has intensified following Atiku’s position that he would not participate in a presidential debate unless Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were also represented.

Atiku’s spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, said the former vice-president considered debates involving opposition candidates without the ruling party unfair and inadequate for a meaningful assessment of the candidates’ proposals.

The position has raised questions about whether presidential debates should require the participation of all major contenders or proceed with those willing to attend.

For Oseni and other advocates of issue-based campaigning, public debates provide an opportunity for voters to assess candidates beyond campaign rallies, party slogans and political endorsements.

Such engagements allow candidates to explain their positions on pressing national issues, including insecurity, inflation, unemployment, taxation, public borrowing, education and healthcare. They also give journalists and voters an opportunity to challenge claims and seek clarification on campaign promises.

Tinubu’s participation in a presidential debate remains a key point of contention, with opposition figures calling on him to defend his administration’s record directly before Nigerians. The President and his supporters have continued to defend the government’s economic reforms and policy direction.

Atiku, meanwhile, has used public statements and policy arguments to challenge the administration, particularly over the cost of living and petrol pricing.

As political parties prepare for the 2027 election, the debate over participation highlights the importance of transparent engagement between candidates and voters.

A presidential debate does not guarantee that candidates will agree on policy or that voters will accept their arguments. However, it can provide a public platform for comparing proposals, testing claims and examining how contenders intend to address Nigeria’s challenges.

The election campaign is expected to bring further scrutiny of candidates’ policies, records and willingness to engage with opposing views.