ABUJA, NIGERIA – Nigerian businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose, the younger brother of former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose and a supporter of Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his decision not to accompany the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign team to every campaign venue ahead of the 2027 general election.
Fayose questioned the President’s ability to withstand the demands of a nationwide campaign, alleging that Tinubu’s decision could be linked to concerns about his physical stamina. He also challenged the administration to explain its record on insecurity, electricity, road infrastructure and the rising cost of living.
The criticism followed Tinubu’s inauguration of the APC Presidential Campaign Council on October 14, 2026, during which the President indicated that he would not attend every campaign venue, citing the need to concentrate on governance, meet economic obligations and attract investment to Nigeria.
However, the President did not say that the Constitution prohibited him from campaigning. His position was that he would not accompany the campaign team to every location across the country.
Fayose questions the President’s physical capacity
Reacting in a video shared on his official Facebook page, Fayose dismissed the explanation that the President needed to concentrate on governance, arguing that the administration had not adequately addressed the country’s challenges.
He questioned whether Tinubu would be able to withstand the demands of travelling across Nigeria for campaign rallies and engaging directly with voters.
Fayose also referred to the President’s overseas trips and public appearances, using them to support his argument that Tinubu might not have the stamina required for an extensive campaign.
His comments have added to the debate about the President’s decision to limit his physical participation in campaign activities.
However, Fayose’s claims about Tinubu’s health remain allegations. The President’s medical condition cannot be established from his campaign schedule or public appearances alone.
What will Tinubu tell Nigerians about insecurity?
Beyond the question of physical stamina, Fayose challenged the President to explain what his administration would tell Nigerians living in communities affected by insecurity.
He specifically referred to Zamfara and Katsina states, where residents have faced attacks, kidnappings and intimidation by armed groups.
In some affected communities, reports have documented local arrangements involving negotiations with armed groups, including allegations that residents have been forced to provide money or other payments to secure their safety.
The situation has raised questions about the government’s ability to protect lives, restore security and prevent criminal groups from exercising control over communities.
Fayose’s argument is that the President should be prepared to account for the security situation and explain what his administration intends to do differently if re-elected.
Questions over the security situation in Borno
Fayose also raised concerns about Borno State, referring to reports of children allegedly being held by armed groups.
His remarks reflect wider public concern over the continuing threat posed by insurgents and kidnappers in parts of the North-East.
Specific claims about the number of children being held and the circumstances of their abduction require independent verification. Nevertheless, the safety of children and the efforts being made to secure the release of abducted victims remain important issues for the federal government to address.
A presidential campaign would provide an opportunity for the administration to explain its progress in combating insurgency, preventing abductions and restoring normal life to affected communities.
Edo and Delta roads also feature in Fayose’s criticism
The social commentator questioned what Tinubu would tell residents of Edo and Delta states about the condition of roads and the difficulties motorists face on some routes.
He argued that deteriorated road infrastructure has made certain journeys unnecessarily difficult, with travellers facing prolonged delays and additional expenses.
Poor road conditions can affect commercial activities, increase transportation costs and disrupt the movement of agricultural produce and other essential goods.
The federal government would therefore face questions about the progress of road projects, their funding, completion timelines and measures to improve safety on major highways.
Electricity and economic hardship
Fayose also questioned what the President would tell Nigerians about electricity supply and the administration’s economic policies.
Electricity remains a major concern for households and businesses that depend on generators and other alternative power sources to compensate for unreliable public supply.
The administration has defended its economic reforms as necessary to address structural problems and improve long-term stability. However, many Nigerians continue to express concern about food prices, transport costs, purchasing power and the pressure on household incomes.
Fayose argued that these conditions would make it difficult for the President to convince Nigerians that his administration deserves another term without providing clear explanations and evidence of progress.
The debate over the reforms has become one of the central issues likely to shape public discussion ahead of the 2027 election.
Allegations of an election plan
Fayose also alleged that the ruling party’s ultimate plan was to rig the 2027 election.
The allegation has not been established as fact. Any claim of planned electoral manipulation requires credible evidence and should be investigated by the appropriate authorities.
The credibility of the next election will depend on the conduct of political parties, electoral officials, security agencies and other institutions responsible for ensuring a transparent process.
Tinubu’s campaign decision draws wider criticism
Fayose’s comments come amid broader criticism of Tinubu’s decision not to attend every campaign event.
The Presidential Campaign Organisation associated with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also criticised the President’s position, arguing that a candidate seeking re-election should be prepared to defend his record before Nigerians.
On the other hand, the Presidency and APC leaders have maintained that the administration must continue its governing responsibilities while preparing for the election.
There is no constitutional requirement for a presidential candidate to physically attend campaign rallies in every state. However, the decision about how to campaign remains a political choice that voters can evaluate when assessing a candidate’s willingness to engage directly with the electorate.
The questions ahead of 2027
As preparations for the next general election gather momentum, the debate extends beyond whether Tinubu will personally attend every rally.
Nigerians will want explanations about the administration’s record on security, electricity, infrastructure, employment and the cost of living. They will also expect clear commitments about what the government intends to achieve if given another four years.
Fayose’s intervention has added to the growing public debate over the President’s campaign strategy and the issues likely to shape the 2027 election.
Whether voters agree with his assessment or not, the concerns he raised point to questions that the administration will be expected to address as the election approaches.
IBN News notes that allegations concerning the President’s health and claims of planned election rigging remain unproven. The President’s stated reason for limiting his campaign appearances is that he intends to prioritise governance and other national responsibilities.
The central question remains whether the administration can present a convincing record and respond to Nigerians’ concerns as it seeks a second term in office.
