A coalition of opposition groups in Nigeria has urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate Peter Obi to form an alliance in order to increase their chances of winning the 2027 presidential election. The groups, which include the Save Democracy Mega Alliance and the Civil Societies Alliance, warned that failure to do so could result in President Bola Tinubu securing a second term.
The advice was given at a gathering in Abuja, where the South South Coordinator of the Save Democracy Mega Alliance, Tony Akeni, emphasized the importance of unity among opposition parties. Akeni stated that the meeting concluded that Atiku and Obi must work together if they hope to make an impact in the 2027 election. He noted that Nigeria is fortunate to have two qualified opposition leaders, but that their chances of success are hindered by the possibility of running on separate party platforms.
According to Akeni, research has shown that the current administration is taking measures to prevent either Atiku or Obi from winning the 2027 presidential election. However, he believes that these measures can be overcome if the two leaders form an alliance. Akeni warned that if Atiku and Obi were to run on separate platforms, it could lead to a “fatal, historically regrettable and irredeemable mistake” that would ultimately benefit President Tinubu.
The call for unity among opposition groups comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 presidential election. The election is seen as a crucial opportunity for the country to transition to a new leadership and address the various challenges it is facing. With the current administration taking steps to consolidate its power, the opposition groups believe that a united front is necessary to challenge President Tinubu’s bid for re-election.
The outcome of the 2027 presidential election will have significant implications for Nigeria’s future. The country is facing numerous challenges, including economic instability, insecurity, and corruption. A united opposition could provide a credible alternative to the current administration and offer a chance for Nigeria to move in a new direction. As the election approaches, the decision by Atiku and Obi to form an alliance or run on separate platforms will be closely watched, and its impact on the outcome of the election will be significant.
