President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has sent a strong message to Peter Obi, cautioning him against forming a joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 elections. Onanuga believes Obi would not enjoy the same level of passionate support he had in 2023 if he decides to play second fiddle to Atiku.

According to him, many of Obi’s supporters were drawn to his individual candidacy and would likely not back an alliance that makes him a running mate. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Onanuga maintained that the APC remains confident going into 2027. He said Tinubu’s work in office will speak volumes when it’s time to campaign again.

He added that while opposition figures like Obi, Atiku, and other political players are busy testing out alliances and strategies, the ruling party is focused on governance and delivery, which, he claims, will keep Tinubu in power beyond 2027. Obi and Atiku are currently involved in a political coalition that recently adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform.

The Senior Pastor of The Second Coming of Christ Ministry, Adewale Giwa, has shared his thoughts on the 2027 presidential election, saying that only a joint ticket of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) can truly challenge and defeat President Bola Tinubu.

Pastor Giwa believes that for the opposition to have a real shot, Peter Obi must be willing to step down and support Atiku as the presidential candidate of the coalition. He argued that while Obi has strong backing in the Southeast, Atiku has a broader reach across the country, especially in the North.

“In my view, if Obi insists on being the flagbearer, the coalition will lose,” he said. “But if he steps down for Atiku, the chances of defeating Tinubu become real. Only an Atiku-Obi ticket can shake the ruling party.” Giwa further explained that a Southeasterner like Obi wouldn’t get enough national support to win on his own, as he believes both the North and parts of the South are still not ready to back a candidate from that region.

He added that Atiku, if elected, would be more likely to hand over power to the Southeast in the future, describing him as more politically stable and nationally accepted. “Obi knows the reality on ground,” Giwa said. “He saw what happened in the last election. If he wasn’t open to stepping down, he wouldn’t have joined the coalition. He understands Atiku is more popular and politically experienced.”

According to him, if both men come together with the right understanding, they could form a strong ticket that resonates across the country and offers a real alternative in 2027.

Lagos State will be on a full lockdown this Saturday, July 12, 2025, as the state prepares for its local government elections. According to the Lagos State Police Command, no vehicle movement will be allowed across the state from 3am to 3pm on that day. Moreover, this 12-hour restriction covers all roads and waterways within the state and is aimed at ensuring safety and order during the election.

All private and commercial vehicles are expected to stay off the roads. Also, security convoys, state security outfits, and any group using escorts, sirens, or hidden number plates won’t be allowed to move around. The police says that only specific security teams approved for the election will be on duty that day.

Those involved in essential services like medical emergencies, fire response, and rescue operations will be allowed to move around, along with:

• Officials of LASIEC (Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission)
• Accredited journalists covering the election
• Certified election observers

However, everyone in this category must be properly identified. If you’re not wearing a valid LASIEC-issued tag, you won’t be allowed through, no matter your role.

In addition, the police have issued a strong warning to anyone planning to disrupt the process. Miscreants, political thugs, and anyone planning to cause confusion near polling units or collation centers will be dealt with. Additionally, officers have been deployed to monitor hotspots and respond swiftly to any trouble.

Finally, residents are advised to stay alert and report anything suspicious. Ilf you notice any unusual behavior or individuals acting strangely, you can contact the police using these numbers:

• 08063299264
• 08065154338