In a renewed push for leadership change in Nigeria, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his commitment to a coalition of opposition forces aimed at unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. Atiku, who has been vocal in his efforts to challenge the current administration, made the declaration on Tuesday during a meeting with a delegation of National Opinion Leaders.
Atiku, who was flanked by key political figures, assured those in attendance that the coalition’s momentum is unstoppable, stressing that it has “left the station” and would continue to expand, welcoming Nigerians from all walks of life into the fold. His statement signified a broader ambition to unite various opposition forces for a common goal of good governance in the country.
In a video shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Atiku emphasized that his coalition would not be confined to one political party or platform. Instead, he stressed that the coalition’s primary focus was to find the best platform that would deliver the much-needed reforms for Nigeria’s future. He stated that any political vehicle that would guarantee good governance would be embraced, irrespective of party lines.
“Atiku’s remarks are part of his continued campaign to unite opposition forces in a bid to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 presidential elections. His position reflects a strategic effort to consolidate efforts among opposition groups, thus increasing their chances of presenting a formidable challenge to President Tinubu.”
The former Vice President’s comments come shortly after the PDP Governors’ Forum made a notable decision. At their meeting in Ibadan, they publicly distanced themselves from Atiku’s planned coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general elections. The governors’ stance casts a shadow of uncertainty over the political dynamics in the opposition parties, given their influence within the PDP.
Despite this, Atiku remains undeterred in his resolve to challenge the status quo. His coalition, which was first announced in March, includes key figures such as Dr. Yunusa Tanko, who represents Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who defected from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The PDP governors’ forum had initially raised hopes that the meeting would yield clarity on their position regarding the coalition talks. However, their decision to disassociate from any merger discussions is a significant blow to the momentum Atiku has been trying to build. After a meeting that concluded on Monday, the governors expressed their willingness to welcome any individual, group, or political party that would align with the PDP’s goal of winning power and establishing good leadership in 2027.
Despite this seeming setback, Atiku appears confident that his vision for the coalition will not be derailed. He views the governors’ disassociation as part of the normal political process and remains focused on rallying other stakeholders for his cause. In his meeting with the National Opinion Leaders, Atiku reiterated that the coalition’s objective remains steadfast: ensuring a future with good governance.
Atiku’s comments suggest he believes that political fragmentation within the opposition is an expected part of the process and that the final goal is greater than individual or party interests. He has maintained that no matter the political platform, the central aim is to foster a leadership that will improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Atiku’s speech to the National Opinion Leaders, a group predominantly made up of youths, was a clarion call for future-oriented leadership. He urged the youths to reject short-term temptations, including financial inducements, that might sway their judgment. The former Vice President expressed deep concern about the future of Nigerian youth, warning them not to trade their futures for immediate gains.
“Don’t be disrupted by people giving you pennies or kobos here and there, and nairas here and there, and then abandon your future, and the future of your children,” Atiku warned, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on the long-term goals of achieving a new and better Nigeria.
Atiku’s rhetoric was clear: the stakes are high, and only a collective, focused effort would bring the necessary change. He urged the youth to be proactive, to start planning, and to begin organizing across the country in support of the coalition’s efforts. He further encouraged them to mobilize Nigerians of all backgrounds to join the movement for a “new pathway” for the country.
Atiku continued to stress that the aim of the coalition is not just to win an election but to secure a future for Nigeria that is based on good governance, transparency, and justice. He called on Nigerians to come together and reject the status quo in favor of new ideas and fresh leadership.
“I have been meeting with key stakeholders, and very soon, we will announce something concrete,” Atiku said, further building anticipation for the details of his coalition. The promise of a “new path” or “Sabuwar tafiya” in Hausa is one that Atiku says will address the deep-rooted challenges that Nigeria faces, particularly with governance and the economy.
Atiku’s coalition has drawn a wide range of interest, with various political figures and groups expressing support. However, the split in the PDP leadership, especially the absence of the support of its governors, may pose a significant challenge to his efforts. Despite the hurdles, Atiku’s determination to unite opposition forces continues to define his strategy.
The situation within the opposition parties remains fluid, and Atiku’s leadership will be tested as he navigates these divisions. While the PDP governors have distanced themselves from his coalition, the party’s rank and file remain largely loyal to Atiku. His focus will likely be on bridging the gap between the party leadership and the youth and other factions that are aligned with his vision for a new Nigeria.
As the 2027 elections approach, it is clear that the path to power for the opposition is fraught with challenges, not least of which is ensuring unity among diverse groups with sometimes conflicting interests. Atiku’s call for a new political vehicle and a renewed commitment to governance reform could become a rallying cry for Nigerians disillusioned with the current administration.
While Atiku’s coalition faces internal and external challenges, the idea of a unified opposition offering an alternative to the APC has resonated with many Nigerians. The stakes for 2027 are high, and the upcoming election is set to be one of the most consequential in Nigeria’s history.
