A new nationwide opinion poll has revealed growing public dissatisfaction with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, with a majority of respondents expressing concerns about the country’s direction, worsening economic conditions and confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The survey, conducted by Harmattan Intelligence and released on Tuesday, sampled 1,000 registered voters across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones through telephone interviews conducted in English, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and Pidgin.

According to the report, 75 per cent of respondents strongly disapproved of President Tinubu’s performance, while 15 per cent expressed strong approval. Another seven per cent said they somewhat disapproved of the administration.

The poll further revealed that 80 per cent of respondents believe Nigeria is heading in the wrong direction, while only 15 per cent said the country is on the right path.

On personal economic conditions, 70 per cent of respondents said their circumstances had become much worse since Tinubu assumed office, while 12 per cent reported that their situation had somewhat deteriorated. Only 15 per cent said their living conditions had improved.

Economic hardship emerged as a major concern among respondents. Eighty-five per cent said transportation costs had increased significantly following the removal of fuel subsidy in May 2023, while 45 per cent disclosed that they often struggle to afford three meals a day.

The survey also assessed public perceptions of potential contenders for the 2027 presidential election.

According to the findings, a proposed joint ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso recorded the highest favourability rating among the names tested, with 55 per cent of respondents expressing a very favourable view and 25 per cent indicating a somewhat favourable opinion.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar received mixed ratings, with 40 per cent of respondents expressing a somewhat favourable view. President Tinubu, however, attracted predominantly unfavourable ratings among those surveyed.

Cost of living and food prices were identified as the most important issues likely to influence voter decisions in 2027, with 50 per cent of respondents citing them as their primary concern. Security and violence ranked second at 25 per cent, while corruption and accountability followed at 15 per cent.

The survey also highlighted widespread scepticism about the electoral process. Sixty per cent of respondents said they were not at all confident that the 2027 elections would be free and fair, while 30 per cent said they were not very confident.

Despite these concerns, voter enthusiasm appeared strong. Sixty-five per cent of respondents said they were certain to vote in the next general election, while another 25 per cent indicated they were very likely to participate.

State-by-state findings revealed varying political trends, although disapproval ratings remained high across several states surveyed, including Adamawa, Kano, Lagos, Anambra, Oyo and Bayelsa.

Harmattan Intelligence said the survey was designed to assess presidential approval ratings, voter sentiment on key national issues and the viability of potential candidates ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The organisation noted that the findings suggest economic conditions, governance performance and confidence in democratic institutions will be among the key factors shaping voter attitudes as the 2027 elections approach.