Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Timi Frank, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to abandon his re-election ambition and ensure a free, fair and credible election in 2027.
Frank made the call in a statement on Sunday, warning that any attempt by the President to force his way back into office could plunge the country into crisis.
This comes amid controversy surrounding an alleged protest against Tinubu after Friday prayers at the Shehu Shagari Mosque in Area 1, Garki, Abuja.
Although the Presidency dismissed reports of a protest against Tinubu, a viral video appeared to suggest otherwise.
Reacting, Frank said the alleged protest was evidence of growing dissatisfaction with Tinubu's administration. He advised the President to listen to Nigerians and shelve his re-election ambition rather than rely on assurances from political associates.
However, he condemned the action and the perpetrators for choosing a religious occasion to express their displeasure. He also commended the President's security detail for ensuring his safety and de-escalating the situation.
"The rejection was total and unmistakable. No Nigerian president has been embarrassed like this publicly. The way Nigerians rejected him speaks volumes, but should he decide to go ahead and he loses, he should be prepared to accept defeat just like former President Goodluck Jonathan did," he said.
"What happened in the FCT last Friday showed that political assurances and promises are not necessarily a reflection of the reality on the ground. The public reaction reflects the anger and dissatisfaction of Nigerians.
“I am giving him this advice because I genuinely want him to listen to the truth.
"My advice is that he should take a bow and leave the race. He should take this advice seriously."