Key Nigerian political figures are ramping up their efforts ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the opposition gearing up to replicate President Bola Tinubu’s 2015 success when he ousted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from power.
In a notable show of political unity, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, held a high-profile meeting last week. While this meeting was publicized as their first significant interaction since the 2023 elections, reports indicate they have met multiple times, including in Dubai, to strategize on forming a united front to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
Atiku emphasized the importance of these meetings, stating they are vital for democracy and the country's future. He affirmed that merging efforts could successfully unseat the APC.
"Yes, it’s very much possible. We can merge to achieve a common goal," he told the BBC.
Formation of a Mega Party
Discussions are underway about creating a mega party, driven by both external pressures and internal issues within the major political parties. A key Tinubu ally within the PDP has weakened the opposition by aligning with the president’s agenda. Similarly, the Labour Party has faced internal strife.
In addition to Obi and Atiku, other opposition members and some within the ruling party are also in talks about forming a mega party. Many northern National Assembly members, fearing the APC’s declining popularity, are particularly eager for this merger, believing it necessary to secure electoral victories.
One opposition senator mentioned that a merger is seen as the only way to counter the APC's dominance in the North, which could be detrimental in the upcoming elections. He stressed that without a merger, Tinubu is likely to secure a second term.
Strategic Moves Against the APC
The opposition believes uniting could effectively challenge the APC, as evidenced by divided votes in the 2023 elections. Meanwhile, the APC is aware of these plans, particularly in the North, and appears to be courting Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP).
There are speculations that the APC might offer Kwankwaso a significant role, possibly as a running mate in 2027, to gain favor with the northern elite dissatisfied with Tinubu. However, Kwankwaso’s rivalry with APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje complicates matters, as Ganduje's supporters remain influential in Kano.
Intense Political Landscape
The 2023 election was one of the fiercest in Nigeria’s history, with Bola Tinubu (APC), Atiku Abubakar (PDP), and Peter Obi (LP) as the main contenders. The election highlighted deep ethnic and religious divides, with low voter turnout at 26.72%. Tinubu won with 8.8 million votes, followed by Atiku’s 7 million and Obi’s 6.1 million.
Following the election, a prolonged legal battle ensued, but the courts ultimately upheld Tinubu’s victory.
As preparations for 2027 intensify, political maneuvering and alliances will play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s future leadership.
