Veteran broadcaster and Arise News anchor, Reuben Abati, has expressed concerns over the growing internal crises within Nigeria’s political parties, predicting that the outcome of the 2027 general elections may ultimately be decided by the courts rather than the electorate.
Abati said the deepening leadership disputes and multiple claims to party structures and presidential tickets across major political parties could trigger prolonged legal battles ahead of the elections.
According to him, the situation is particularly pronounced within the African Democratic Congress, which he said is currently divided into three factions, each laying claim to the party’s presidential ticket.
He identified the factions as the one led by Nafiu Bala Gombe and Chris Uba, another led by Dumebi Kachikwu, and the faction aligned with David Mark, which has adopted Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate.
Abati also pointed to divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party, claiming the party now has two factions and two presidential candidates. He said one faction is associated with Nyesom Wike and has reportedly endorsed Senator Sandy Onor, while another faction led by Kabiru Turaki is backing former President Goodluck Jonathan.
“Whether we like it or not, Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will be determined by the courts, not by the voters,” Abati stated, citing the growing confusion within the political parties.
He further questioned the involvement of Jonathan in the unfolding political developments, describing the former president as an international statesman whose reputation commands respect both within and outside Nigeria.
“I don’t even understand why President Jonathan will allow anybody to drag him into this state of confusion. He is an international statesman. He is a man of stature, widely respected locally and internationally,” Abati added.
His remarks come amid ongoing political realignments and internal disputes within several parties as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
