President Bola Tinubu has declared that he will not back down from the political contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election, insisting that those seeking to unseat him must defeat him through a democratic process rather than expect him to relinquish power without a fight.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while receiving members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its President, Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso.
Speaking on the approaching general election, Tinubu said politics is inherently competitive and that he remains prepared to defend his mandate through constitutional and democratic means.
“I asked for this job. I’m in it. Those who will take it from me will try. They will try. All is fair in politics, and there is equal opportunity,” the President said.
He added: “I won’t offer them a red carpet. I won’t offer them the leash to tie me at home. No, we will wrestle each other to the finishing point. That’s the truth. That is fair in politics.”
Tinubu also dismissed allegations questioning the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), maintaining that the electoral body has not intimidated any political party.
“INEC is neutral. They have never intimidated anybody. If political opponents are crying wolf, then they are afraid of their own shadows and the uncertainty in the company they keep,” he stated.
The President further told the bishops that his administration’s economic reforms, though initially difficult, were beginning to produce positive results, citing improvements in education and other sectors.
According to him, Nigeria’s future depends on sustained unity, stability and collective commitment to nation-building.
“Our founding fathers did their best. They left us a nation, and we owe it to generations yet unborn to build a nation of unity, stability and prosperity for the future,” Tinubu said.
His comments come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with parties and potential contenders positioning themselves for what is expected to be another fiercely contested presidential race.
