Ola Akinwunmi
In a bold political move, all three Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senators from Osun State have thrown their weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term in the 2027 presidential election.
The endorsement, announced on Tuesday, marks a significant shift in allegiance within Nigeria’s opposition ranks and signals growing bipartisan support for Tinubu’s administration.
The Osun PDP Senators’ Caucus—comprising Senator Kamarudeen Oyewumi (Osun West), Senator Olubiyi Ajagunla (Osun Central), and Senator Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East)—issued a joint statement praising Tinubu’s “visionary and progressive agenda.” They highlighted his achievements in economic reforms, infrastructure development, and national security, citing a “notable reduction in food prices” and improved safety as evidence of effective governance.
“This endorsement reflects our deep confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to deliver on the promise of democracy,” the lawmakers declared, emphasizing that their decision was unanimous and without internal dissent. They urged the President to “sustain and accelerate his developmental strides” for nationwide benefit.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) welcomed the endorsement but pushed for deeper alignment. Senator Ajibola Basiru, APC National Secretary, commended the PDP senators for their “act of truthfulness” but urged them to join the APC to “cement their commitment” to Tinubu’s leadership. Basiru argued that defecting would strengthen Osun State’s access to federal projects under the APC’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”
This move follows earlier endorsements by two opposition governors—Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom (PDP) and Charles Soludo of Anambra (APGA)—and amplifies Tinubu’s cross-party appeal. Analysts suggest it could weaken opposition cohesion ahead of 2027, particularly as the PDP grapples with internal defections.
The Osun senators’ endorsement also reveals Tinubu’s strategic outreach to opposition strongholds. Notably, the Southeast’s Ohanaeze Ndigbo recently endorsed Tinubu, with plans to formalize support during his upcoming visit to Abia State.
While the PDP senators framed their decision as policy-driven, critics speculate about underlying political calculations. Some allege the move could be a precursor to defections, mirroring trends seen in other states. However, the senators’ statement insisted their support was rooted in “genuine confidence” in Tinubu’s leadership.
President Tinubu, elected in 2023 on an economic revitalization platform, has increasingly garnered bipartisan accolades for infrastructure projects and fiscal policies. His administration’s focus on food security and security reforms has resonated with lawmakers, even as challenges like inflation persist.
As the 2027 race heats up, Tinubu’s ability to attract opposition figures may redefine Nigeria’s political landscape. For now, the Osun PDP senators’ endorsement stands as a testament to his expanding influence—and a potential crack in the PDP’s unity.
