Akin Tollgate, a prominent figure who supported Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election, has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in 2027.
The decision marks a notable shift in political allegiances among key influencers who were central to the movement that propelled the Labour Party candidate in the last election cycle. Tollgate’s move comes as political maneuvering for the next general election begins to intensify across the country.
By endorsing the incumbent President, Tollgate has placed himself at the centre of a growing debate regarding political loyalty and the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s ruling and opposition parties.
Shifting political allegiances
In his statement, Tollgate addressed the potential backlash from his former supporters. “Some will be upset to see me pivot. Others will cheer. I understand,” he stated. He noted that maintaining loyalty to a 2023 political posture is easier than responding to the complexities of the current political environment.
This sentiment reflects a trend in Nigerian politics where social media influencers and political actors frequently recalibrate their positions as administrations change and economic conditions evolve. Tollgate’s transition from a vocal supporter of the opposition to a backer of the presidency is expected to draw significant attention from the Obidient movement.
The 2023 elections were defined by the rise of this movement, which saw a massive surge in youth engagement and a direct challenge to the traditional dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The movement’s supporters were known for their high level of digital activism and intense loyalty to the Labour Party.
Tollgate’s endorsement of Tinubu suggests a potential realignment within this demographic as the country moves closer to the 2027 election cycle. While the Labour Party continues to position itself as a viable alternative, the movement of influential voices toward the APC could impact the party’s ability to mobilise its core base.
The presidency has not yet issued a formal response to the endorsement, though such moves are often viewed as strategic gains for the ruling party. The political landscape remains fluid as various stakeholders begin to position themselves for the upcoming electoral contest.
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