By Our Correspondent
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly begun large-scale mobilisation for the 2027 general elections by distributing new vehicles, including Toyota Hilux trucks, Hummer buses and Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, to state coordinators of a political support group known as the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.
The vehicles were said to have been handed over in Abuja to coordinators from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. According to insiders, the movement is being directed by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who is described as the head of the nationwide mobilisation effort.
Sources claim that each state coordinator received a set of high-end vehicles intended to boost grassroots political operations ahead of the 2027 elections. Observers say the move signals an early push to strengthen support for President Tinubu long before the official campaign season begins.
In addition to the vehicle distribution, state coordinators were reportedly told that each state is expected to raise one billion naira to support the political network. The funds are said to be intended for campaign logistics, outreach activities and local mobilisation. Some members within the structure have reportedly expressed concern about the demand, calling it unrealistic and insensitive at a time of economic hardship.
The development has sparked public criticism due to the worsening insecurity across the country. Nigeria continues to face a surge in kidnappings, armed attacks and displacement in several regions. Critics argue that distributing luxury vehicles for political mobilisation while citizens face serious security challenges reflects misplaced priorities. Some insiders also warned that the timing could provoke public anger and deepen distrust in government actions.
Analysts note that several questions remain unanswered, including whether the vehicles were funded privately or with public resources and whether the contributions requested from states comply with election financing guidelines. The early mobilisation effort is expected to draw increased scrutiny as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
