Former APC deputy spokesperson tells Tinubu to quit 2027 presidential race after Abuja mosque incident

Timi Frank, the former deputy spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress (APC), has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race amid concerns over public discontent. In a statement released on Sunday, Frank cautioned that a push for a second term could ignite a crisis in the nation. This recommendation emerged following controversy surrounding a reported protest at the Shehu Shagari Mosque in Abuja, following Friday prayers.

Although the Presidency denied such an incident, a video circulating on social media suggested otherwise. Frank interpreted the alleged protest as indicative of mounting dissatisfaction with Tinubu's administration. He urged the President to heed the voice of the Nigerian people and abandon his re-election ambition instead of solely relying on support from political allies.

Frank condemned the protesters for targeting a religious event to express their grievances and applauded Tinubu's security team for maintaining his safety and preventing further unrest. The criticism was unequivocal; no Nigerian president has faced such public humiliation. The widespread rejection of Tinubu is evident, yet if he proceeds and loses, he should accept defeat akin to former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Frank emphasized that the events in Abuja's FCT on Friday demonstrated that political promises do not always align with public sentiment. He reiterated his advice, urging Tinubu to heed the public's anger and dissatisfaction and step aside from the presidential race.