Stakeholders Dismiss Merger Talks: Peter Obi Not Suitable for VP, Atiku’s Ambition Questioned

As 2027 approaches, political leaders express skepticism over potential alliances among opposition figures

With the 2027 election approaching, discussions surrounding the formation of political alliances have intensified. Stakeholders emphasize that the 2027 election and political alliances among key figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi are fraught with challenges. Concerns have been raised about Atiku’s ambitions and the viability of a coalition that could effectively challenge President Bola Tinubu.

Political dynamics within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) reveal ongoing leadership crises, complicating any potential collaborations. Since the 2023 presidential elections, both parties have struggled with internal discord, which stakeholders believe hampers their ability to unite against Tinubu’s administration.

Reports indicate that the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) is facing its own turmoil, highlighted by recent suspensions of party officials due to alleged misconduct. Such instability further undermines the opposition’s chances of forming a cohesive front in the upcoming elections.

Prominent political scientist Pat Utomi had previously suggested a merger involving Atiku, Obi, and NNPP’s Rabiu Kwankwaso. However, Utomi’s claims have been met with skepticism, particularly from the All Progressives Congress (APC), which dismissed them as unrealistic aspirations.

Despite these challenges, Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, insists that discussions among opposition leaders are progressing, aimed at creating a united front. He asserts that these negotiations are crucial for restoring Nigeria’s governance, which he claims is currently mishandled.

Nonetheless, Katchi Ononuju, a prominent analyst, has cast doubt on the potential for a successful merger. He argues that only Kwankwaso has shown genuine interest in collaborating with Obi, while both the PDP and LP are hindered by their internal crises.

Ononuju criticized Atiku’s ambitions, claiming they alienate potential allies. He asserts that unless Atiku steps back to allow a younger candidate from the South to take the lead, any merger efforts are futile. This sentiment reflects a growing discontent among political stakeholders regarding Atiku’s leadership and strategic decisions.

Moreover, Ononuju firmly believes that Obi would not accept a vice-presidential position under Atiku. He highlights the South’s growing demand for political inclusion, particularly after years of perceived marginalization during Buhari’s presidency. This desire for representation further complicates any talks of a power-sharing arrangement.

The former Special Adviser on Public Affairs to Obi emphasized that Atiku’s past actions and aspirations jeopardize his credibility among opposition leaders. His insistence on leading from the front, despite internal party turmoil, has led to skepticism regarding his potential role in any coalition.

Additionally, activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju pointed out that a merger would be ineffective against Tinubu’s entrenched political machinery. He argues that the opposition squandered a prime opportunity in the last election due to their inability to unite and present a strong challenge.

As discussions unfold, the prevailing sentiment among stakeholders is that unless significant changes occur—particularly regarding Atiku’s ambition and the representation of southern interests—the chances of a successful coalition in the 2027 election remain slim. The complexities of the current political landscape suggest that achieving unity among opposition parties will require more than mere discussions; it will necessitate a genuine commitment to collaboration and shared objectives.