A new opposition coalition, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has emerged to contest President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
The alliance includes prominent figures such as Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Attorney General Abubakar Malami. Their collaboration aims to present a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The coalition, operating under the National Political Consultative Group (NPCG), convened in Abuja to strategize on unseating the APC. Key attendees included former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Aminu Wali.
The group is currently evaluating political parties to adopt as their platform, with discussions expected to conclude within weeks.
Peter Obi’s Position on the Coalition
However, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, credited with powering the fringe party into the third position, has clarified his stance on coalition politics, saying his commitment to Nigeria’s progress is over mere power acquisition.
He stated, “I am not against coalition; in truth, I am for it — not for a power grab but to position Nigeria for greatness.”
Obi insists that any alliance must prioritize the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, focusing on issues like healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation.
Labour Party’s Response to Obi’s Involvement
Nonetheless, his party, factionalised, said they are confused over Obi’s participation in the coalition without the party’s consent. National Publicity Secretary Obiorah Ifoh remarked, “Peter Obi has not come to terms with his intentions for the 2027 presidential race.”
The party maintains it will not engage in any coalition or merger ahead of the elections. This faction is led by embattled national chairman, Julius Abure, but other factions appear to welcome Obi’s strategic participation at the coalition talks.
Political analyst Katchy Ononuju believes the coalition could become a significant force if it addresses past opposition pitfalls. He suggests that uniting behind a popular southern candidate like Obi could compel President Tinubu to adopt more inclusive policies.
Ononuju said, “If well organized, such a force established two years to election would make the president sit up.”
Obidient Movement’s Stance on Obi’s Role
The Obidient Movement, a grassroots support base for Obi, insists he must be the presidential candidate in any coalition.
Ononuju, a staunch member of the political family, said, “The members of the Obidient Movement will not agree to work with Obi if he is not the presidential candidate on any ticket he runs on.”
He highlighted Obi’s unique appeal, noting, “Nobody amongst them has the cult followers Peter has, which has surpassed the Buhari followership.”
Atiku Abubakar’s Commitment to the Coalition
On his part, Atiku Abubakar reaffirmed his dedication to the coalition, dismissing rumours of his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His media office clarified, “Atiku remains a principal bona fide member of the PDP, the main opposition party.”
The coalition seeks to unite various opposition parties, including the PDP, to present a united front against the APC.
The formation of this opposition coalition is a significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape. A similar cobbling together of opposition forces in 2013 to birth the current ruling party, APC, led to the ouster of PDP from power after 16 years of holding sway at the central government.
As the 2027 elections approach, the coalition’s ability to maintain unity and present a cohesive agenda will be crucial in challenging the incumbent administration.
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