Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of orchestrating the suspensions of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as part of a broader political strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement released on September 24, 2025, Atiku described the suspensions as “deliberate markers” aimed at undermining Nigeria’s democracy and consolidating power ahead of the next presidential cycle.
He warned that such actions could erode public trust in democratic institutions and set a dangerous precedent for political interference.
He wrote: “It is reassuring that the voice of reason has prevailed at last with the unsealing of the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Though the precious time denied the people of Kogi Central in the Senate can never be reclaimed, this struggle has not been in vain. It has proven, once again, that when we stand together, we can triumph over tyranny.
“The suspension of Governor Simi Fubara and lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the unlawful suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the weaponisation of state institutions to harass and intimidate opposition voices are not isolated acts. They are deliberate markers of the Tinubu administration’s strategy as 2027 approaches: to subvert our hard-earned democracy and compromise the will of the people at any cost.
“Let it be clear: on our part, we shall do everything legitimate and within the bounds of the law to protect our democracy, defend the sovereignty of the people’s mandate, and rescue our nation from the grip of authoritarianism.”
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The suspensions have sparked widespread debate, with critics alleging that they are politically motivated. Supporters of the administration argue that the actions are necessary to maintain order and discipline within the political system.
As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape in Nigeria remains tense, with opposition figures like Atiku calling for vigilance and accountability from the government.
