A major political shake-up is unfolding in Nigeria as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has revealed an early push to build a strong opposition front ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The development was made public during a press conference held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre in Abuja.
Atiku, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), disclosed that he has begun talks with Labour Party’s Peter Obi and former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai to lay the groundwork for a united opposition campaign.
RELATED STORIES
READ ALSO: Nigeria’s Finance Minister Identifies Capital Market As Key To $1 Trillion Economy Goal
The aim is clear – to present a serious challenge to President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The meeting, which attracted several opposition leaders and political stakeholders, was originally convened to deliberate on the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Tinubu.
However, attention quickly shifted when Atiku signalled that a broad political movement was already in motion, drawing support from various corners of the opposition.
READ ALSO: Berlin: Nigeria-Germany ties deepen through economic and energy moves
Although Peter Obi was not present at the press briefing, his spokesperson, Yunusa Tanko, stood in his place, further cementing speculation of a growing alliance.
Nasir El-Rufai’s recent switch from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has added more fuel to the conversation, with political insiders suggesting the SDP might become the coalition’s official vehicle in 2027.
Reliable sources say conversations have been underway between Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai, and other influential figures, including former Attorney General Abubakar Malami.
Even Pastor Tunde Bakare, who ran against Tinubu in the APC primaries, is said to be considering a defection to the SDP.
READ ALSO: China and Africa strengthen ties as top officials mark Africa Day in Beijing
Also present at the gathering were CUPP National Secretary Peter Ahmeh and Segun Showunmi, convener of The Alternative political movementboth of whom have consistently called for unity among Nigeria’s opposition blocs.
