Opposition Coalition Gains Momentum Ahead of 2027 Elections

With the official formation of an opposition coalition spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, political observers are weighing the potential of the alliance to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election.

The coalition, emerging under the aegis of the National Political Consultative Group (NPCG) North, comes at a time of mass defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which is consolidating efforts to secure President Bola Tinubu’s return for a second term.

Despite the wave of defections, the coalition has drawn a host of high-profile politicians, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, among others.

During a recent meeting in Abuja, other notable attendees included former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, 2023 Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Aminu Wali, former Minister of Police Affairs Adamu Maina Waziri, and ex-APC Vice Chairman (North) Salihu Lukman.

The gathering has heightened speculation that the coalition is preparing to adopt a political platform, with Ralph Okey Nwosu, National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), disclosing that talks on this matter are nearing conclusion.

Obi’s Involvement Draws Reactions from Labour Party

Although Peter Obi remains a central figure in the coalition, his involvement has triggered internal friction within the Labour Party (LP). Despite stating he remains a member of the LP “for now,” his attendance at the coalition’s meeting without the party’s consent has drawn criticism.

In a statement, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, described Obi’s actions as “confusing” and “an affront” to party leadership.

“Obi was seen in a pro-coalition meeting in Abuja without the permission of the party. This is unacceptable and suggests he has not fully clarified his intentions for 2027,” Ifoh said.

He reaffirmed LP’s stance against any form of pre-2027 coalition or merger, warning that the party’s presidential ticket remains open to aspirants who adhere to its constitution.

Analysts Say Coalition Could Challenge Tinubu’s Hold on Power

Dr. Katchy Ononuju, a former adviser to Obi and a founding member of the Obidient Movement, believes the coalition has the potential to dislodge Tinubu’s government, if it overcomes internal divisions.

Ononuju argued that the failure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to respect zoning agreements in 2023 fractured the opposition, prompting Obi and others to leave. He said the coalition must prioritize zoning and rally around a southern candidate—preferably Obi.

“The refusal to zone the presidency back to the South was PDP’s downfall. Obi is the most viable option now. If the opposition unites behind him, it could force Tinubu into political concessions,” Ononuju said.

He also warned that Obi’s support base, the Obidient Movement, would not accept a vice-presidential slot for Obi on any joint ticket, insisting that Obi must lead the alliance’s presidential charge.

“Obi draws power from the people. He’s the only one with a movement strong enough to challenge the APC. We will not support any alliance where Obi is not the presidential candidate,” he declared.

Legal and Political Realities Could Shape 2027 Strategy

Activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam added a more cautious perspective, noting that while Obi’s coalition move may upset his core supporters, it is a necessary step to improve his electoral chances.

“In today’s Nigeria, it is almost impossible for a solo politician from the Southeast to win the presidency. The APC will never allow a repeat of the 2023 feat. The coalition gives Obi a fighting chance,” Idam told DAILY POST.

He, however, warned that Obi might struggle to replicate his 2023 performance due to growing assertiveness by the APC and the deployment of state machinery to influence elections.

Political Platform Yet to Be Finalized

The coalition is yet to announce a unifying political platform, although discussions are ongoing, according to ADC’s Ralph Nwosu. Sources say a final decision is expected within two weeks.

For now, the alliance remains a loose arrangement of political heavyweights, but one that is being closely watched by both ruling and opposition parties alike. Its eventual structure and leadership could determine whether it becomes a credible threat to the APC’s dominance—or falters under the weight of conflicting ambitions.