Talks intensify over a potential 2027 coalition between Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, with a proposed one-term presidency and power shift in 2031. But Obidients insist Obi must be the presidential flagbearer. SDP and CPC emerge as possible platforms.
2027: Obidients Push Back as Atiku-Obi Coalition Takes Shape—Inside Talks of One-Term Deal, New Party Platform
As Nigeria’s political tide begins to shift in preparation for the 2027 general elections, conversations around a possible alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi have gained new traction. What began as quiet speculation following a 2024 “friendly meeting” between the two political heavyweights now appears to be blossoming into a serious conversation.
Atiku, in a BBC Hausa interview, openly hinted at a coalition, saying, “We can merge to achieve a common goal. So, it’s possible, and nothing can stop it if we so wish.” His comments reignited speculation that plans may be in motion to create a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
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But the most telling sign came when Atiku visited former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna. He was not alone. Accompanying him were notable political players—ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, Senator Bindu Jibrilla, Senator Gabriel Suswan, and Chief Achike Udenwa—all of whom have deep roots in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Though officially framed as a Sallah visit, insiders suggest the meeting had more to do with strategic planning than holiday greetings. The objective? To brief Buhari on coalition groundwork being laid and potentially secure his blessings.
Interestingly, Atiku’s visit followed closely behind separate meetings some APC governors had with Buhari—further fueling talk of realignments within and beyond the ruling party.
Plotting a Comeback: CPC and SDP in the Picture
The former vice president and his allies are reportedly considering alternatives to the troubled PDP and Labour Party. Two platforms being eyed are the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), once Buhari’s political base, and the resurging Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The SDP option may carry more weight than assumed. El-Rufai, now leaning towards the party, is said to be courting influential figures in the North. A source close to the former Kaduna governor disclosed that the SDP’s national leader, who was the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has declared he won’t contest in 2027—opening the door for new power players.
The Game Plan: Atiku in 2027, Obi in 2031
Multiple sources confirm that the proposed alliance includes a detailed power-sharing agreement: Atiku will run for President in 2027 with Obi as his running mate, but serve only one term. In 2031, the plan is for Obi to take over and contest the presidency under the same coalition.
The move is seen as a balancing act—Atiku brings northern clout and decades of political structure, while Obi carries the youth momentum, grassroots appeal, and regional strength in the South-East.
Their combined votes in 2023—over 13 million—surpassed President Tinubu’s 8.7 million. And with the growing dissatisfaction toward the current administration, analysts believe a united front could pose a real threat in 2027.
Lagos as a Telltale Sign
Supporters of the alliance point to the 2023 election result in Lagos State as proof of its potential. Obi secured 582,454 votes, edging out Tinubu’s 572,606—a remarkable feat in the President’s own backyard. Many argue that the internal fractures within Lagos APC, amplified by unresolved legislative crises and public discontent, could make the state more vulnerable in the next election.
Arewa Support and Northern Calculations
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has, in recent times, voiced frustration with the Tinubu-led administration. Sources say Atiku has already received tacit assurances from key Northern stakeholders, including ACF elders, who are reportedly disillusioned with the status quo.
With this backing, Atiku is expected to consolidate more Northern votes than he did in 2023. Combined with Obi’s influence, the alliance might cover both geographic and demographic gaps.
Obidients Draw a Line
However, the proposed Atiku-Obi ticket isn’t sitting well with all. Members of the Obidients movement, known for their zealous support of Peter Obi, have voiced firm opposition to any ticket that does not have Obi as the presidential candidate.
They argue that the South hasn’t completed its eight-year rotation and that it’s Atiku’s turn to step aside. “Why repeat what didn’t work?” asked Samuel Ajayi, an Obidient advocate. “It’s time for Obi/Atiku, not the other way around.”
Another supporter, Jonathan Ajere, warned: “Fielding another northern candidate after Buhari would only guarantee Tinubu an easy path to a second term. Obi is the only candidate with cross-regional credibility to win.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite the potential of this alliance, hurdles remain. Differences in political ideology, ambition, and party structure could create internal friction. Also, any coalition built on power-sharing must be carefully managed to avoid collapse midway.
Yet, if successful, this coalition could significantly alter Nigeria’s political equation.
APC’s Response
Meanwhile, loyalists of the Tinubu administration appear unfazed. Daniel Bwala, a presidential spokesperson, dismissed the alliance as “a coalition for a wild goose chase.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he said: “They are still struggling to convince Nigerians that they have any plan at all, needless alternative plan.”
The Road to 2027
As the political chessboard rearranges, all eyes are on how this proposed coalition will evolve. Will Atiku step down for Obi or will Obi agree to serve as vice president? Will a new party emerge, or will they salvage a battered PDP?
One thing is clear: 2027 won’t be business as usual.
