The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confidently stated that no alliance of opposition leaders, including a potential partnership between Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, will be enough to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
In an exclusive interview, Bala Ibrahim, the National Publicity Director of APC, dismissed the idea of an opposition coalition as a threat to Tinubu’s re-election. His comments followed a statement by Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, who had suggested that Atiku and Obi were ready to unite in order to challenge the APC government, which they view as incompetent.
Ibe pointed out that the combined votes of Atiku and Obi, which total around 12 million, should have been enough to stop Tinubu in the previous election and ease the suffering faced by Nigerians. Many in the opposition agree that forming a coalition of political forces could potentially defeat the APC, similar to how the opposition united in 2015 to oust President Goodluck Jonathan.
Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, explained that Obi is open to collaborating with anyone who shares his vision for a better Nigeria. He emphasized that Obi’s commitment to collaboration isn’t limited to any one individual or party, as long as the goal is to improve the welfare of the nation.
However, the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) believe that defeating the APC will require more than just an alliance between Atiku and Obi. CUPP’s National Secretary, Peter Ahmeh, stressed that the key to success lies in ensuring that the 2027 elections are free and fair. He believes that a coalition of trustworthy leaders could unite against the APC, but the most crucial factor is preventing the manipulation of results at the polling units.
SDP’s National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of a coalition given the existing trust issues within opposition parties. He pointed out that Nigerians are more interested in credible leaders who have a proven record of service, rather than simply the political parties involved.
Despite the opposition’s efforts to form alliances, APC remains confident in its ability to secure a victory in 2027. Bala Ibrahim mocked the idea of Atiku and Obi joining forces, saying their combined votes would not pose a serious threat to the ruling party. He argued that the APC’s strategies and the internal divisions within the opposition will ensure Tinubu’s re-election.
Other political parties, like the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), have also expressed willingness to collaborate with other progressives to build a better Nigeria. APGA’s National Chairman, Sly Ezeokenwa, reiterated his party’s commitment to working with others for national progress.
In conclusion, while the opposition is exploring the possibility of a coalition to challenge the APC in 2027, the ruling party remains confident in its chances. With internal divisions within the opposition and a strong political strategy, APC believes its hold on power will continue.
