Chief Chekwas Okorie, the founding National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has labeled the upcoming Osun State gubernatorial election as a practice round for the 2027 general polls. During an interview in Abuja, he encouraged opposition groups and the public to stay alert to protect the nation’s democratic processes.
Okorie expressed concern over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) freezing and then unfreezing Osun State accounts, suggesting this move is a trial run for political interference. He warned that opposition parties should monitor these trends closely to prepare for 2027.
Addressing the recent meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Okorie criticized the President’s public comments. Specifically, he questioned why the President praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a future election, noting that praising a referee before a match begins is alarming for competitors. Furthermore, he rebuked remarks made by a presidential aide regarding Cardinal Onaiyekan, emphasizing that national issues like hunger and insecurity affect all citizens, not just a specific religious group.
Okorie concluded by urging the opposition to improve voter education and mobilization efforts. He asserted that citizens are responsible for safeguarding their votes and strengthening democratic institutions to ensure a secure future for the next generation.
