2027: Sowore rates Tinubu administration ‘F9’

Omoyele Sowore, the 2027 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, has delivered a scathing assessment of President Bola Tinubu's administration, calling it an “F9” across all key areas of governance. Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, Sowore criticized the administration for systemic failures in security, energy, education, healthcare, food security, and economic management. He emphasized that there was nothing positive to report about Tinubu’s three-year tenure in office. Sowore outlined the administration’s shortcomings in detail, stating that the national power grid has effectively collapsed over the past three years. He pointed to the growing financial burden on students, noting that many are now forced to take loans to afford basic educational expenses. In healthcare, he highlighted the lack of access to proper medical care, even for the president himself, who reportedly avoids Nigerian hospitals. On food security, Sowore cited international reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization, which classify Nigeria among the countries requiring external food aid. Economically, he noted a sharp rise in poverty levels, with the number of Nigerians living below the poverty line doubling from approximately 70 million to 140 million. In a metaphorical tone, Sowore likened the administration to a student he would ask to leave the classroom. Drawing on his background as a former professor, he joked that if Tinubu were his student, he would request him to transfer schools or seek further education. When asked whether his critique mirrored that of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, who had previously called for Tinubu’s resignation, Sowore dismissed the comparison. He clarified that his comments did not advocate for Tinubu’s retirement but rather for a return to academic learning. The African Action Congress, led by Sowore, is positioning itself as a formidable force in the upcoming 2027 elections. Meanwhile, Tinubu continues his campaign for re-election under the banner of the All Progressives Congress. His administration faces mounting pressure from both political opponents and civil society groups, which have increasingly vocalized concerns over governance and public services. The criticism comes amid broader discontent over the state of infrastructure, economic stability, and social welfare in Nigeria. Recent reports highlight deteriorating conditions in essential sectors such as electricity supply, educational funding, and healthcare accessibility. These issues have fueled public frustration and intensified calls for accountability from the current leadership. Political analysts suggest that Sowore’s remarks reflect a strategic effort to galvanize support ahead of the 2027 polls. By directly challenging Tinubu’s record, he aims to position himself as a credible alternative leader capable of addressing the nation’s pressing challenges. However, the extent to which his critique will resonate with voters remains uncertain, particularly given the polarized nature of Nigerian politics. As the political landscape shifts, the focus is likely to remain on how each candidate addresses the core issues facing the country. With the election cycle approaching, the coming months will see increased scrutiny of policy proposals and leadership credentials. For now, Sowore’s sharp evaluation of Tinubu’s administration underscores the high stakes of the upcoming contest.