RismadarVoice Reporters
October 11, 2026
Phrank Shaibu, a communications aide to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has expressed confidence that the 2027 presidential election will favour his principal, arguing that economic hardship and public dissatisfaction with the administration of President Bola Tinubu could influence voters’ decisions.
Shaibu predicted this during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, where he discussed Atiku’s electoral prospects and the challenges facing Nigerians.
Responding to questions about how the former vice-president could improve on his performance in the 2023 presidential election, when he secured approximately 29 per cent of the votes, Shaibu maintained that prevailing economic conditions could strengthen Atiku’s chances.
“The pathway is simple, and this one, it’s going to be one of the easiest elections for Atiku Abubakar,” he said.
He argued that rising living costs, poverty and concerns over household purchasing power would become major considerations for voters ahead of the election.
According to him, Nigerians experiencing financial difficulties would be more inclined to support a candidate they believed could improve their economic circumstances.
Shaibu predicted that economically disadvantaged Nigerians would vote overwhelmingly for Atiku, although his assessment remains a political forecast rather than an established indication of voting intentions.
The aide also criticised Tinubu’s economic management, alleging that the president, members of his family and senior government officials were aware of what he described as the administration’s failure to improve citizens’ welfare.
He claimed that the government’s policies had not delivered sufficient relief to Nigerians struggling with the cost of living.
Shaibu further questioned a reported proposal by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, to engage 4,000 social media influencers to publicise projects and achievements of the Tinubu administration.
He argued that government performance should be demonstrated through improvements experienced by citizens rather than relying extensively on promotional campaigns.
According to Shaibu, public communication cannot substitute for measurable improvements in living standards, infrastructure and economic opportunities.
He maintained that Nigerians would ultimately assess the administration based on their personal economic experiences and the impact of government policies on their daily lives.
His comments reflect the opposition aide’s assessment of the political environment ahead of 2027. However, the outcome of the presidential election will depend on several factors, including party nominations, campaign developments, voter participation and the choices made by the electorate.
