Elder statesman Chief Adesunbo Onitiri has issued a stern caution to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former governors Nasir el-Rufai and Peter Obi.

Onitiri specifically warned these prominent political figures against engaging in actions or rhetoric that could destabilise Nigeria’s political climate as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Saturday from Lagos, Onitiri urged the trio, whom he acknowledged as key national figures and statesmen, to exhibit greater restraint and patriotism in their political activities.

He emphasised that escalating political tensions pose a significant threat to the country’s democratic stability.

“As one of the original democrats who risked our lives during the 1993–1994 struggle against military rule, we cannot sit idly by while some politicians create openings for anti-democratic forces to exploit,” he said.

He particularly criticised Atiku’s reported move to seek intervention from an American court to disqualify President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, describing it as “unnecessary and unacceptable to most Nigerians.”

“We committed democrats will not fold our arms while our people suffer from hunger and insecurity. The opposition should allow the President to focus on governance and the delivery of democratic dividends,” Onitiri added.

The elder statesman stressed that the current economic and security challenges demand unity and collaboration across party lines.

He called on both the ruling All Progressives Congress and opposition leaders to set aside partisanship and work together for the benefit of the Nigerian people.

“The Federal Government is making efforts to address the inherited economic and security issues since taking office in 2023. What is needed now is cooperation, not division.”