Recent developments
There is a growing movement to create a coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections. However, negotiations among political leaders are facing obstacles due to the ambitions of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and disagreements over zoning.
Key figures such as the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi are advocating for power to remain in the South for the next eight years. Uncertainty surrounding Atiku’s potential candidacy is also causing delays in the negotiation process.
The formation of a coalition was announced by prominent figures like Atiku, Labour Party’s Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The debate on uniting opposition parties to challenge President Tinubu has been gaining momentum, with different political figures expressing varied opinions on the matter.
Atiku has been emphasizing the importance of unity among opposition parties, with efforts to unite them dating back to 2025. Talks among opposition leaders gained momentum following El-Rufai’s switch to the Social Democratic Party, culminating in a recent press conference marking the official start of the coalition.
However, negotiations are at a standstill as key figures in the coalition discussions are eyeing the 2027 election. Concerns over zoning and Atiku’s potential candidacy are major factors impeding progress in the negotiations.
Various voices within the coalition have differing opinions on the necessity of a Southern candidate for the upcoming election. While some argue in favor of honoring an unwritten agreement for power rotation between the North and South, others believe the coalition ticket should be open to all Nigerians.
Reactions and debates
The APC has criticized the coalition talks, questioning the motives behind them and labeling Atiku as solely focused on his personal ambition. In response, Atiku’s media adviser countered these claims, highlighting the importance of focusing on governance and addressing the concerns of Nigerians.
The discussions surrounding the coalition are ongoing, with stakeholders aiming to solidify their efforts to challenge the ruling APC in the upcoming elections.