Senator representing Borno South in the Nigeria’s Senate, Ali Ndume, has cautioned that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) must not dismiss the growing influence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other opposition platforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ndume gave the warning during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today, monitored by Tribune Online on Friday.

Ndume stressed that no political challenger should be underestimated, regardless of its current strength.

Asked whether President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands a strong chance of securing a second term, the senator said he was not in a position to predict electoral outcomes.

However, he pointed to the 2023 elections as evidence that political surprises are possible, citing the performance of ADC presidential aspirant Peter Obi as a clear example.

According to him, Obi’s ability to mobilise significant support nationwide showed that emerging political forces can reshape the electoral landscape, a lesson parties must take seriously as 2027 approaches.

On security, Ndume applauded ongoing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in tackling insurgency in the North-East.

He also said he would again support another US military airstrikes against insurgents operating in parts of North-East Nigeria.

According to the lawmaker, insurgents have maintained a presence in the mountainous areas for over a decade, forcing residents to flee their homes and farmlands.

He said sustained and consistent military offensives are necessary to eliminate the group and enable displaced persons to return home. (Saturday Tribune)