Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso Explore Opposition Alliance Amidst Party Turmoil Ahead of 2027 Election

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 presidential election, political tensions are rising. Former PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar has been advised against forming alliances with Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) and other opposition figures. The political landscape is marked by internal crises within major parties, including the PDP, LP, and NNPP.

Despite efforts to form a coalition, experts doubt the success of such an alliance. Political scientist Pat Utomi suggested that Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso are working towards a new political party to challenge President Bola Tinubu. However, Felix Morka of the APC dismissed these talks as unrealistic.

Some party members, such as Katchi Ononuju, believe that only Kwankwaso has shown any serious interest in collaborating with Obi. He criticized Atiku for his "inordinate ambition" and blamed him for the opposition's division, claiming that Atiku's refusal to step down for a younger southern candidate has caused friction.

Ononuju also stated that Peter Obi will not work with Atiku as a Vice Presidential candidate, adding that Obi's rising support in the South makes him unlikely to back Atiku. He emphasized that any merger would fail unless Atiku steps aside for younger leadership from the South.

Lawyer Deji Adeyanju added that no opposition merger could defeat Tinubu, as his alignment with INEC (Nigeria’s electoral commission) makes him nearly unbeatable. Adeyanju criticized the opposition for their past failures and predicted that, without unity, they stand no chance in 2027.

In short, while there are discussions of a political alliance, deep divisions and skepticism remain, casting doubt on the opposition’s ability to challenge Tinubu successfully.