As Nigeria begins to prepare — subtly but steadily — for the 2027 presidential election, political watchers and everyday citizens alike are beginning to ask: Who is most likely to take power next?
What alliances are forming behind the scenes?
And can any of the old guard reinvent themselves enough to remain relevant in the eyes of a younger, more vocal electorate?

In this analysis, we explore not only the possible candidates and the state of major political parties, but also the influence of social voices like VeryDarkMan (VDM), who are reshaping the political conversation from outside the traditional system.

The APC: Will Tinubu Run Again?

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current holder of power, may be eligible for a second term, but serious questions are already being raised about his health, popularity, and capacity to govern effectively beyond 2027. If he chooses to step aside (either voluntarily or through party pressure), the APC will need to find a new standard-bearer — likely from the North.

Potential APC figures to watch:

  • Kashim Shettima – Tinubu’s Vice President, with strong ties in the North-East and growing clout among APC governors.

  • Nasir El-Rufai – Former Kaduna Governor, bold and calculating, but polarizing.

  • Babajide Sanwo-Olu – May be considered if the Southwest insists on retaining power.

  • A Northern APC Governor – Don’t rule out surprise moves from governors like Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa) or others quietly building influence.

If Tinubu decides to run again, his strategy will likely involve consolidating Northern loyalty, leveraging incumbency power, and confronting youth dissatisfaction head-on — a challenge becoming more pronounced thanks to online influencers.

PDP: Can They Stop Fighting Themselves?

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) continues to suffer from internal crises. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who lost the 2023 election, may consider one final run — but fatigue surrounds his candidacy.

PDP’s realistic options:

  • Atiku Abubakar – Still commands support in the North and party structures, but has lost momentum with younger voters.

  • Nyesom Wike – A wildcard; his recent flirtation with APC may undermine his chances.

  • Peter Obi Reconciliation – If the PDP swallows pride and negotiates a merger with Obi’s Labour Party, they could have a fighting chance — but only if they resolve internal ego clashes.

Labour Party: Peter Obi’s Second Coming?

Peter Obi became a youth sensation in 2023, symbolizing integrity and a break from old politics. But since then, internal Labour Party issues, weak structure, and unmet expectations have slowed his momentum.

Yet Obi remains relevant — especially as the frustration among Nigerian youths grows deeper.

To have a realistic shot, Obi must:

  • Build a national structure.

  • Forge alliances with political heavyweights.

  • Move beyond “integrity” and offer clear policy blueprints.

NNPP and Kwankwaso: A Northern Kingmaker?

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano and NNPP leader, made waves in 2023, especially in the North. Though not yet a national force, he may emerge as a spoiler or kingmaker in future coalition arrangements.

He remains a serious contender if merged with PDP or LP efforts — especially with growing voter fatigue toward APC and PDP.

VeryDarkMan: The Outsider Who’s Disrupting the Political Order

In an era where digital voices now rival traditional political institutions, VeryDarkMan (VDM) has carved out a unique space.

Though not a politician, his outspoken activism, fearless commentary, and massive youth following make him a cultural force with undeniable political weight.

Why VDM matters:

  • He speaks the raw, unfiltered truth many Nigerians are thinking.

  • He challenges corruption, tribalism, and political hypocrisy.

  • He appeals to the youth — a demographic that will shape the 2027 election outcome.

While VDM is unlikely to run for office, his influence may shape how millions think, vote, and engage politically. His constant pressure on public figures could force candidates to become more accountable, transparent, and policy-focused.

In many ways, VDM reflects a political awakening among Nigerian youths — a demand for real leadership, not recycled promises.

2027 Will Be About Alliances — Not Just Popularity

No party can win alone in 2027. Victory will depend on:

  • Cross-regional alliances

  • Youth engagement (online and offline)

  • Credible policy communication

  • Balancing faith, ethnicity, and class

And perhaps most importantly: the ability to read the room — something outsider voices like VDM are doing far better than many politicians.

What to Watch Out For Before 2026:

  • National conferences and reconciliations

  • Quiet endorsements and secret meetings

  • Electoral reforms and INEC leadership shifts

  • Emergence of digital-first campaigns

  • Public debates shaped by nontraditional voices like VDM

Final Thought: Don’t Just Argue Politics — Understand It

2027 won’t just be another election. It may be a tipping point for Nigerian democracy.

The winner may not be the loudest candidate today — but the one who listens, adapts, and understands where Nigeria is truly heading.

👉🏽 For behind-the-scenes political coverage leading to 2027, visit NaijaBlog.net
You won’t hear everything on TV — but you will read it here.

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