Senator Shehu Sani has dismissed efforts by some Nigerians to draw United States President Donald Trump into Nigeria's 2027 general elections, saying such attempts will yield nothing. The APC senatorial candidate argued that Trump, unlike his predecessors Barack Obama and Joe Biden, shows little interest in the credibility of elections on the African continent.
Sani's Warning on Trump's Involvement
Sani, who represents Kaduna Central in the Nigerian Senate, made the remarks on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, via his verified X account @ShehuSani. He stated: "Those who are trying to drag Mr Trump into our elections are just wasting their time. Trump is not Obama or Biden. He has the least interest in the credibility or otherwise of elections in Africa. The elections in Tanzania, Uganda and Cameroon are case studies."
The senator added that the American president's attention is currently occupied by foreign policy crises, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Gaza conflict, and the war in Ukraine. He also noted that Trump's Republican Party is focused on the upcoming US Senate and House of Representatives elections.
Reactions to Sani's Post
The post drew over 15,000 views and triggered a debate among Nigerians over both the 2027 electoral outlook and Sani's own record as a democracy advocate. Several users challenged Sani's position, with some questioning whether his comment implied the 2027 elections would lack credibility.
@Pacer1980 wrote: "So in your opinion the elections will NOT be credible. That Mr Trump's hands are full and Nigeria is the least of his problems? If anything, this your tweet of yours will invite him more than anything else, bc you've alluded to the fact that Nigeria is not ready for a credible election."
@irowode raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process: "Na wa oooooo, you should be more concerned about election rigging and manipulation. It's very dangerous when elections become routine meaningless rituals. The will of the people must always matter in a democracy, and no act to subvert the will should be tolerated. I cover my eyes in shame; we thought you stood for democracy."
Support and Criticism of Sani's Stance
Others agreed with Sani's central point about Trump's foreign policy priorities. @KizitoJuni13207 said: "For the first time ever, let's me agree with you. It's a total waste of time. It's a total waste of time to think Trump cares about anyone except America."
@Mohamme56531464 shifted the focus to domestic accountability: "The fear is not about Trump; it's about scrutiny. If APC is confident in its popularity, let Osun have a free and fair election without manipulation. Nobody wants a Maduro-style embarrassment, but those who fear accountability will always fear international attention."
@Zidon79096007 questioned whether Sani has changed over time: "Where is our dear senator who once stood and spoke regardless of threats or consequences? He once stood for his people. Gaskiya, I always wondered if you've been cloned."
Davido's Appeal to Trump Over Osun Election
Recall Nigerian singer Davido took to X on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, to appeal directly to Trump over the upcoming Osun election. Davido raised fears of tension, intimidation, and possible violence ahead of the August 15 Osun Governorship election. The singer urged the United States and the international community to ensure every voter is protected and every vote is respected.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Davido wrote an open letter to Trump urging him to ensure the upcoming Osun election is free and fair. The move drew criticism from Nigerians who questioned why the singer was appealing to a foreign leader over a domestic election. Davido fired back at critics on X, citing his dual citizenship as the reason he can address both Trump and Tinubu as his presidents.
