Atiku announces coalition against Tinubu

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar yesterday at a meeting of key opposition leaders said they have formed a coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Atiku made the declaration during a press conference in Abuja, attended by several opposition politicians, including former APC members who have since defected.

The event was convened to address President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State over the political crisis there.

Among those present at the event were the 2023 Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who was represented by Dr Yunusa Tanko; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal; former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai; a former gubernatorial hopeful in Ogun State, Segun Sowunmi; former Director General of Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Dr Salihu Lukman; Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, Chief Peter Ameh and Soni Monidafe, among others.

When asked whether the emerging coalition would serve as the main opposition against the APC in the 2027 elections, Atiku said: “Yes, this is the birth of the coalition of opposition ahead of 2027.”

Even though some stakeholders have reservations, Atiku’s statement signalled a significant political realignment, with opposition forces preparing to challenge the dominance of the APC.

Observers are asking how leaders with differing ideologies, ambitions, and party affiliations can work together to fulfil their promise to Nigerians.