A coalition of opposition forces, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, has been formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s rule in 2027. This move is reminiscent of the 2013 coalition that led to the All Progressives Congress (APC) defeating former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015.
Atiku confirmed the coalition’s intention to unseat President Tinubu, stating that they have come together to address the President’s “dangerous and unconstitutional actions” in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. The coalition has called on Nigerians, especially National Assembly members, to reject this declaration.
However, the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, has dismissed the coalition as a “nullity,” stating that no political gang-up can stop President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, has also described the coalition as a “dead on arrival” political gambit.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutionally guaranteed rights, including free speech and healthy opposition. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris emphasized that President Tinubu encourages constructive criticism and healthy opposition.
Nigerians have expressed mixed feelings about the coalition’s viability, with some questioning whether they can form a viable political party between now and 2027. Others have warned that the Federal Government should not underestimate the coalition, especially given the involvement of northern leaders.
