The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the potential alliance of opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, as incapable of halting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on Tuesday, APC National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim described the idea as unrealistic, asserting that no coalition of opposition forces could pose a serious challenge to the ruling party.
Reacting to remarks by Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe—who suggested that Atiku and Obi had learned lessons from the last general election and could unite to oust the “incompetent and clueless” APC administration—Ibrahim dismissed the claims as wishful thinking.
Ibe had previously argued that the combined votes of Atiku and Obi in 2023, totaling 12 million, could have prevented Tinubu’s presidency and the accompanying hardships.
The opposition parties, including the Labour Party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and others, have expressed openness to a coalition to defeat the APC.
Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, emphasized that his principal remains committed to a better Nigeria and is willing to collaborate with like-minded individuals, as long as the motive is not merely political power.
Similarly, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) called for a credible coalition that prioritizes free and fair elections.
CUPP National Secretary Peter Ahmeh underscored the need for unity among opposition leaders, especially if a southern candidate is included in the ticket to address regional sensitivities.
Ahmeh stated, “A coalition can help, but it’s not enough. Nigerians must demand that elections are decided at polling units, eliminating opportunities for manipulation at collation centers.”
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has also signaled its readiness to collaborate with progressive forces to build a better Nigeria. APGA National Chairman Sly Ezeokenwa emphasized the party’s commitment to national development following the resolution of its internal leadership disputes.
SDP National Chairman Shehu Gabam, however, argued that a coalition alone would not address the systemic decay in Nigeria’s political landscape. Gabam stressed the need for a credible assembly of leaders with proven track records, rather than a mere merger of parties.
Despite calls for unity, some observers have questioned the feasibility of Atiku and Obi working together effectively. PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor described the potential alliance as illusionary, citing unresolved ego issues between the two leaders.
“Atiku and Obi must manage their egos to provide a viable alternative,” Osadolor remarked. “But I believe Nigerians may explore other viable options beyond these two.”
Meanwhile, Bala Ibrahim mocked the opposition’s plans, asserting that the APC’s superior strategy would ensure Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
“They are dreaming. The APC is a step ahead. While they are learning lessons, we are teaching new ones,” he quipped.
With opposition forces grappling with internal divisions and strategic challenges, the road to the 2027 elections promises to be a complex and contentious one.
