In a significant development in Nigerian politics, two leading opposition figures, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have formed a new alliance by joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This strategic move aims to consolidate opposition forces against President Bola Tinubu's ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections. Abubakar, previously with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Obi, a former member of the Labour Party (LP), decided this coalition was essential following a divided vote in the last election, where Tinubu secured victory with just 37% of the votes.
This coalition marks one of the largest political shifts in Nigeria since the restoration of democracy in 1999. Abubakar and Obi, buoyed by their near-success in the last elections—Abubakar garnered 29% and Obi 25%—have come together to avoid repeating past mistakes and aim for a united front this time. The ADC's interim chairman, David Mark, emphasized that the coalition aims to protect Nigeria's democracy and prevent its evolution into a one-party state.
The newly formed alliance has also attracted support from other prominent figures, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-allies of Tinubu, such as Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi. Abubakar is expected to run for president again, marking his fifth attempt, potentially with Obi as his vice-presidential candidate.
Political analysts believe this coalition has a notably improved chance of success in the upcoming elections, as they have learned from past experiences. Some, however, argue that Tinubu’s incumbency provides him with a stronger position compared to previous elections, making the landscape competitive.
Despite the emergence of this coalition, the ruling party perceives it as a non-threat. Ali Bukar Dalori, the acting chairman of the APC, dismissed the coalition's potential impact, suggesting that it lacks genuine support beyond Abuja.
The PDP has publicly stated its decision to remain independent, while the LP has urged its followers to rally behind the party, signaling a commitment to their own paths. As the political scene heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, the ramifications of this alliance will be keenly observed as Nigeria navigates these uncertain waters.
This coalition marks one of the largest political shifts in Nigeria since the restoration of democracy in 1999. Abubakar and Obi, buoyed by their near-success in the last elections—Abubakar garnered 29% and Obi 25%—have come together to avoid repeating past mistakes and aim for a united front this time. The ADC's interim chairman, David Mark, emphasized that the coalition aims to protect Nigeria's democracy and prevent its evolution into a one-party state.
The newly formed alliance has also attracted support from other prominent figures, including former Senate President David Mark and ex-allies of Tinubu, such as Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi. Abubakar is expected to run for president again, marking his fifth attempt, potentially with Obi as his vice-presidential candidate.
Political analysts believe this coalition has a notably improved chance of success in the upcoming elections, as they have learned from past experiences. Some, however, argue that Tinubu’s incumbency provides him with a stronger position compared to previous elections, making the landscape competitive.
Despite the emergence of this coalition, the ruling party perceives it as a non-threat. Ali Bukar Dalori, the acting chairman of the APC, dismissed the coalition's potential impact, suggesting that it lacks genuine support beyond Abuja.
The PDP has publicly stated its decision to remain independent, while the LP has urged its followers to rally behind the party, signaling a commitment to their own paths. As the political scene heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, the ramifications of this alliance will be keenly observed as Nigeria navigates these uncertain waters.
