Both Bukola Saraki and Bola Tinubu have declared their candidacy for the presidency. Both now want to succeed incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari, whose second and last term ends next year (barring unforeseen circumstances). Saraki should pay attention to Tinubu’s movements.
It’s worth noting that Mr. Bukola Saraki is not a new name in the race for the presidency of the country. During the previous political era, he fought valiantly. In the primary election for the People’s Democratic Party, he appeared on the ballot. He has now returned to the race.
Bola Tinubu will not be able to outsmart him in the arduous struggle for the presidential mansion, the seat of Nigerian power. Then there are some of Tinubu’s actions that Saraki could observe and possibly replicate.
Tinubu has paid several visits to politicians, both openly and discreetly. He is unconcerned about his national political clout. In his bid to succeed his ally, President Muhammadu Buhari, he has left no stone untouched.
Tinubu has consulted strategic stakeholders in virtually all the geopolitical zones. He was in Abia state and talked with the Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu, who has now declared ambition as well.
Only a few days ago, Tinubu rocked the northwestern region. Every politically-conscious Nigerian knows how important the northwest zone is when it comes to elections in Nigeria. It has the bulkiest vote in the country.
He was in Kano State, and he was welcomed by its governor, Umar Ganduje. Upon his departure, Mr. Tinubu was also in Katsina State, and its governor, Aminu Masari, was elated to welcome him. Of course, he is gaining ground.
This particular step of visiting top politicians should be studied by Bukola Saraki. There are top stalwarts and chieftains of the PDP to visit as well. Mr. Saraki can’t afford to overlook all the PDP’s governors. He can begin to consult them just as Tinubu is doing right now.
Tinubu doesn’t limit his visit to the APC leaders alone. He has widened his tentacles. Just last week, he was in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. He was warmly received by the governor, Mr. Seyi Makinde. Tinubu must have been bold to do that.
