Abuja, Nigeria
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, April 16, met with a group of political grassroots mobilisers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, reaffirming his stance against opposition criticism as political conversations around the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum.
The group, known as the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, was led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who also serves as their chairman. The ambassadors are positioned as grassroots political organisers supporting the president’s agenda and future political ambitions.
During the meeting, President Tinubu addressed concerns about growing opposition voices, particularly from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other parties. He dismissed their criticisms, describing them as “noise makers” who, according to him, lack respect for the rule of law.
“They want to scare me off? It is a lie. I have been through this path before,” the president said, signaling confidence in his political experience and resilience.
Tinubu further assured the mobilisers of his commitment to governance, stating that he would not step away from national responsibilities. He told the group that his only promise was to remain actively engaged in leading the country, adding, “With you, the deal is done.”
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors are seen as a key part of the president’s grassroots political structure, expected to mobilise support across communities ahead of the 2027 elections. Their visit to the Presidential Villa highlights ongoing efforts to consolidate political backing at the local level.
Governor Uzodimma, who led the delegation, has been a prominent ally of the president and plays a central role in coordinating these mobilisation efforts.
Following the meeting, a video shared by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians on social media.
Some supporters praised the president’s confidence and communication style. One commenter, Tuale Mene, described Tinubu as a leader who speaks with “confidence, conviction and clear direction.”
Another user, Dapo Adesina, highlighted the president’s blend of intellect and humour, while Usman Zakkah expressed readiness to support Tinubu’s potential re-election bid in 2027.
Others commended the president’s assertive tone, describing it as a sign of strong leadership.
In a separate development, the Labour Party’s South-West National Vice Chairman, Abayomi Arabambi, disclosed that the party had endorsed President Tinubu as a consensus candidate for a second term.
According to Arabambi, the decision was made with the knowledge of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, the party’s only serving governor.
As political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections, the president’s engagement with grassroots structures and his response to opposition voices signal the early stages of what could become an intense political contest in the coming years.