Senator Ali Ndume has cautioned President Bola Tinubu to take the 2027 presidential race seriously.
While warning and revealing that lack of support from former President Muhammadu Buhari could spell trouble for his re-election bid.
Speaking on Politics Today aired on Channels Television, Ndume issued the warning.
This is as several key opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, paid a strategic visit to Buhari at his Kaduna home.
Many of these figures have signaled their intention to run against Tinubu in the next general election.
Ndume stressed that even though Buhari is no longer in office, his influence remains strong, particularly among the masses in Northern Nigeria.
He described Buhari’s support as critical, noting that his grassroots appeal continues to hold political weight.
“Buhari’s political influence has reduced somewhat since he left office that’s natural but his popularity among the northern poor is still undeniable,” Ndume said.
“If he shows up in a market today, everyone will flock to see him.”
The senator, who also plans to visit Buhari, likened the former president’s support base to a “cult-like” following, capable of influencing election results.
He emphasized that Tinubu cannot afford to take any voter for granted.
“Even I have just one vote, but Tinubu should care about it,” he added.
“The same goes for Buhari’s vote it’s not just a number, it carries weight.”
When asked about Buhari’s role in Tinubu’s 2023 victory, Ndume rejected suggestions that Buhari withheld his support.
He argued that although the former president wasn’t visibly active in the campaign, he quietly stood by Tinubu.
“Buhari doesn’t fake support. If he’s not with you, he’ll make it clear,” Ndume explained.
“He might not have hit the campaign trail, but he definitely backed Tinubu.”
On rumours that he might defect to another political party, such as the PDP or SDP, Ndume dismissed the idea.
However, he warned that possible defections within the APC especially from former APC members should not be overlooked, stressing that every political move could have serious consequences in 2027.