Sam Amadi, former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has cautioned political actors and young politicians against underestimating President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to Amadi, Tinubu is prepared to use all tactics—including what he described as “dirty” strategies against opponents who challenge him unfairly.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Amadi stressed that while Tinubu is “not clean,” he is relentless in political battles and will fight back strongly if attacked with questionable methods. “Those who are promising the youths that they can fight Tinubu with dirty dress should take note. Tinubu is not clean; but he will fight you dirty once you are dirty and fighting him,” Amadi wrote.
Amadi’s comments have sparked discussion across social media platforms and political circles, as the 2027 elections draw nearer. The former NERC boss emphasized that only candidates with clean records and integrity can survive the intense political battles expected in the next presidential race.
Highlighting the unique position of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, Amadi said Obi is the only politician capable of surviving what he called the “coming hurricane” in Nigerian politics. According to him, Obi’s political “clothes are not dirty,” implying that his record and methods are transparent and honest.
“Only @PeterObi will survive the coming hurricane because his clothes are not dirty,” Amadi stated, drawing a clear contrast between Obi and other political figures, including the incumbent president.
Peter Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, has remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, especially among youths and reform-minded voters. His reputation for clean governance, fiscal prudence, and advocacy for transparency has set him apart from many of his political contemporaries. Supporters view him as a candidate capable of challenging entrenched political interests, while critics warn of the difficulty in overcoming the influence of powerful incumbents like Tinubu.
Sam Amadi’s warning comes at a time of heightened political activity and tension in Nigeria. Several high-profile figures, including former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, are currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of money laundering, abuse of office, and terrorism financing. Malami reportedly spent a second night in EFCC custody as investigations continue.
The term “dirty fight” used by Amadi refers to the use of aggressive, sometimes questionable political strategies, including smear campaigns, misinformation, and other tactics that may undermine opponents. In Nigeria’s political landscape, such strategies have often been employed by both incumbents and challengers to gain advantage.
Amadi also used his statement to advise young politicians to be cautious. He warned that taking on powerful figures like Tinubu without clean records or strong strategies could have serious consequences. “Political battles are not just about popularity or rhetoric; they are also about resilience, strategy, and credibility,” he said.
In this context, Amadi’s comments serve as both a cautionary note and an endorsement of Peter Obi as a candidate who can withstand political attacks due to his transparency and clean record. Supporters of Obi have shared Amadi’s post widely, highlighting it as a validation of his reputation as a “clean” and capable leader.
The former NERC chairman’s warning underscores the challenges ahead for Nigeria’s political actors. As the country moves closer to the 2027 elections, the battle for power is expected to intensify, with strategies and tactics from both incumbents and challengers under close scrutiny.
