The evolving Nigerian political landscape is bracing for the 2027 presidential election amid speculation and tensions. Key stakeholders warn against any potential alliance between former PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi. Despite internal rifts in the PDP, LP, and NNPP, there is skepticism about a coalition strong enough to unseat President Bola Tinubu.

The PDP has been mired in leadership struggles since 2023, with similar crises affecting the Labour Party. In the NNPP, recent discord led to the suspension of several officials for perceived disloyalty. Political scientist Pat Utomi recently suggested that Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso could form a new political party. However, APC spokesman Felix Morka dismissed this as unrealistic, citing Utomi’s track record with failed mega-party initiatives.

Atiku’s Special Adviser, Paul Ibe, confirmed that discussions among opposition leaders are ongoing, aimed at forming a coalition to challenge the current government. Meanwhile, Katchi Ononuju from the Heritage Centre expressed doubts, suggesting only Kwankwaso has shown genuine interest in collaborating with Obi. Ononuju criticized Atiku’s “inordinate ambition,” suggesting it deters others from trusting him.

Ononuju emphasized the youth-driven movements, particularly the “Obidient” movement, as evidence of a shifting political landscape. He argued that without Atiku stepping down for a younger Southern candidate, any merger would be unlikely. According to him, Atiku’s pursuit of power has fragmented the opposition and jeopardized a unified front against the ruling APC.

Activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju expressed further skepticism, suggesting that any opposition merger would be ineffective against Tinubu’s influence, citing recent election outcomes as proof of the ruling party’s firm grip. He pointed to disunity among opposition leaders as the main reason for past failures, dismissing the possibility of any impactful coalition against Tinubu’s administration.

As the 2027 elections approach, debates over leadership, regional balance, and party unity continue to dominate Nigeria’s political discourse.