2027: ‘Courtesy Is Over, We Will Be Refined And Rugged’ – Aisha Yesufu

A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Aisha Yesufu, has declared that opposition parties will adopt a tougher approach ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying they are no longer prepared to rely solely on courtesy in the face of political intimidation and threats to their lives.

Yesufu said that while the opposition maintained a refined approach during the 2023 general elections, its strategy in 2027 would be both “refined and rugged”.

She, however, clarified that her remarks were not a threat of violence but a declaration of her readiness to defend herself and others against attacks.

The NDC chieftain made the remarks on Sunday Politics, while reacting to the reported attack on members of the party by suspected thugs in Lagos.

Speaking during the programme, Yesufu questioned the emphasis on political rhetoric when Nigerians had lost their loved ones to election-related violence simply because they came out to campaign or support candidates of their choice.

She challenged the host to consider the experiences of families who had buried children, siblings and colleagues following attacks linked to political activities.

“I’m not threatening violence. I’m threatening that I’m going to defend my life,” she said.

Yesufu argued that political actors should not be expected to maintain a courteous approach when their safety was under threat, insisting that Nigerians had the right to protect themselves.

According to her, several families have suffered the loss of loved ones who were attacked while campaigning or expressing support for particular political parties and candidates.

“Some people have buried their children just because they came out to campaign,” she said.

She added that people had also lost their brothers, sisters and colleagues for participating in political activities or declaring their support for certain candidates.

Emphasising the need for self-defence, Yesufu maintained that courtesy should not be mistaken for a willingness to tolerate intimidation and violence.

“Courtesy is not a strategy when your life is threatened. And we are done with that courtesy,” she declared.

Reflecting on the opposition’s approach during the 2023 elections, she said the political climate ahead of 2027 would require a different response.

“2023, right? We were refined. You see, this 2027 will be refined and rugged,” she added.