An ally of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has revealed that the former Vice President is now open to collaborate with Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last election, as part of efforts to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential poll.
Atiku, who came second in the last controversial presidential election with 6,984,520 votes, has over time stressed his commitment to building a strong opposition capable of confronting the All Progressives Congress in the next election cycle.
Meanwhile, with the current internal wrangling brewing within the APC and opposition parties gaining traction, President Tinubu faces serious challenges to securing a second term.
Notably, former Attorney General Abubakar Malami and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal have distanced themselves from the ruling party.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai also recently announced his departure from the APC, openly attacking Tinubu’s leadership and joining the Social Democratic Party.
Mr. El-Rufai has since urged Nigerians across party lines to unite against the ruling party in 2027.
His defection has fueled speculation of a possible political realignment, with sources close to Atiku suggesting that behind-the-scenes coalition talks are already underway.
According to a report by The PUNCH on Friday, an Atiku associate, who doesn’t want to be quoted, confirmed ongoing efforts to unite key opposition figures.
“There is no doubt that they have learned their lessons and are ready to work together. They now realise that to defeat Tinubu, they cannot go it alone,” the source said.
“Data from the 2023 election shows Atiku won in 12 states with over six million votes, while Obi claimed 11 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Combined, their votes would have clearly surpassed Tinubu’s eight-plus million. That’s why serious meetings are already ongoing, though quietly.”
The source also accused Tinubu of fostering regional divisions, alleging this contributed to El-Rufai’s decision to leave the APC.
“Tinubu is attempting to play the North against the South, assuming he can build a winning coalition. But he’s mistaken — that’s part of why El-Rufai left.”
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