2027: Tinubu Too Desperate to Remain in Power — US Firm

A United States-based advocacy and political advisory firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu is determined to remain in power beyond the 2027 presidential election for what it described as self-serving reasons.

The firm made the allegation in a statement published on Thursday while reacting to Tinubu’s Independence Day address to Nigerians.

It claimed that Tinubu’s continued status as President was connected to concerns over possible legal action and the protection offered to sitting heads of state under certain circumstances.

The firm specifically cited head-of-state immunity, alleging that the doctrine could shield a sitting president from the jurisdiction of foreign courts while in office.

It further claimed that Tinubu’s position as President was preventing what it described as a possible official re-examination of allegations concerning his activities in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s.

The firm referred to allegations of involvement in heroin trafficking and suggested that a new criminal indictment could potentially arise if such matters were formally revisited.

The allegations concern events dating back several decades and have previously been the subject of political controversy and public debate.

The firm did not present new evidence establishing the allegations in its latest statement.

Tinubu has consistently denied wrongdoing connected to the allegations surrounding his past, while his administration has maintained that his focus remains on governing Nigeria and implementing its economic and development programmes.

The statement comes as political activity intensifies ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with Tinubu expected to seek another term in office.

Tinubu has defended his administration’s record, pointing to economic reforms, increased government revenue, infrastructure development and measures aimed at strengthening the Nigerian economy.

Opposition politicians and other critics, however, have continued to challenge the administration over economic hardship, insecurity and the impact of its policies on Nigerians.

Von Batten-Montague-York has also previously made statements concerning Nigeria’s 2027 elections, including claims about the conduct of the electoral process and the role of political institutions.

The firm is a private United States-based organisation and its statements do not represent official positions of the United States Government.

Its latest comments have added to the growing political debate surrounding Tinubu’s possible second-term bid and the issues likely to shape the 2027 presidential election.