With the formal emergence of an opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing a major realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition, which has brought together key figures such as Atiku, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, and others, is positioning itself as a formidable force to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The coalition’s seriousness is underscored by ongoing talks to adopt a political party as its official platform, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerging as a strong contender. ADC National Chairman Ralph Okey Nwosu revealed that discussions about the coalition’s vehicle will be finalized within weeks, as various committees have engaged with stakeholders.
Peter Obi’s involvement has been a focal point of intrigue and tension. While Obi has stated he remains a member of the Labour Party and intends to run under its banner “for now,” his participation in coalition meetings has drawn criticism from Labour Party leadership. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiorah Ifoh, described Obi’s actions as confusing and an affront, reiterating that the Labour Party will not enter any coalition or merger ahead of 2027 and that the presidential ticket remains open to all aspirants.
The Obidient Movement, which is closely aligned with Obi, has set clear conditions for its support. According to its leaders, the movement will only back Obi if he is the presidential candidate of any coalition or party. They have categorically rejected the idea of Obi accepting a vice-presidential slot, emphasizing that his grassroots following and popularity are essential for any opposition alliance to succeed.
Political analysts and activists see the coalition as a potential game-changer, provided it can overcome the divisions that fractured previous opposition efforts, particularly issues of zoning and internal party democracy. There is a consensus that uniting behind a popular southern candidate like Obi could force greater political concessions and inclusivity from the Tinubu administration.
However, the path forward remains complex, as the coalition must resolve internal disagreements, clarify its leadership structure, and present a unified front to Nigerian voters. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as the coalition finalizes its platform and strategy for 2027.