ABUJA — Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has stated that his participation in the emerging coalition of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections is driven by the desire to replace poor governance with effective leadership, not personal ambition or political positions.

Obi made the clarification in response to recent media reports suggesting he had agreed to run as Vice President under a joint ticket with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. The alleged deal reportedly included a commitment from Atiku to serve only one term and sign a formal agreement to that effect.

While the specifics of any agreement remain undisclosed, sources confirmed that opposition leaders, including Obi and Atiku, are actively engaged in efforts to build a formidable coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. The initiative is regarded as a strategic move to unify the fragmented opposition and present a credible alternative.

Obi: “I’m in a Coalition Against Bad Governance”

Speaking on the sidelines of a philanthropic event in Abuja, where he donated N20 million to support school and hospital projects by the Anglican Church in Kubwa, Obi downplayed the reported power-sharing arrangement.

“I am in a coalition against hunger, poverty, and ill health. Politics for me is not about positions; it’s about doing the right thing,” Obi said. “I just returned from Rome. I’m focused on education and not on political negotiations. We should be talking about how to educate our children.”

The former Anambra State governor emphasized the importance of investments in education and healthcare as pillars for national development. He also lamented the impact of corruption, which he said diverts critical resources away from essential services.

Obidient Movement Refutes VP Rumours

In a statement, the Director of Strategic Communications for the Obidient Movement, Nana Kazaure, rejected claims of Obi accepting a vice-presidential slot in a potential coalition with Atiku Abubakar. The movement said it had received numerous inquiries from within and outside the country over the alleged arrangement.

Kazaure stressed that while coalition discussions are ongoing, there is no truth to the reports of a finalized ticket.

“Our principal’s aim in joining any coalition is to tackle governance failures, corruption, hunger, poverty, inadequate healthcare, and the plight of out-of-school children,” Kazaure said. “Mr. Obi remains a member of the Labour Party. Any change in that regard will be personally communicated by him.”

The movement also cautioned against sensationalism and urged the media and public to focus on constructive engagement toward national development.

Atiku’s Camp: Details of Coalition Still Under Wraps

When contacted, Atiku Abubakar’s Media Adviser, Mazi Paul Ibe, confirmed ongoing efforts to build a credible opposition alliance but declined to provide specifics.

“I can confirm that Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and other opposition leaders are working towards forming a strong coalition,” Ibe said. “Although substantial progress has been made, the details are still being finalised. The leaders are deliberately keeping negotiations confidential until the process is complete.”

PDP: Coalition Could Secure Swift Victory

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed optimism about the potential of an opposition coalition, stating it could deliver a resounding defeat to President Bola Tinubu and the APC in 2027.

Timothy Osadolor, the PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, suggested that if opposition leaders put aside their egos and align their efforts sincerely, the alliance could secure a victory as early as 1 p.m. on election day.

“If Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai fully commit to this alliance, there is a strong chance of success,” Osadolor said. “Nigerians are grappling with worsening hunger, insecurity, and poverty, which makes the prospect of a united opposition very appealing.”

Osadolor also criticized the APC-led federal government’s handling of public funds, warning that continued financial mismanagement could further alienate voters and energize the opposition.

ADC Reforms to Welcome New Entrants

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of the platforms reportedly under consideration for the coalition, has initiated constitutional reforms to accommodate new political actors.

ADC National Chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu, confirmed he will not seek re-election at the party’s upcoming national convention to allow for leadership renewal. He also announced that the party had relaxed membership requirements, allowing new entrants to immediately contest elections.

“We’ve adjusted our constitution so that new members can enjoy full rights immediately upon joining,” Nwosu stated. “This is part of our commitment to building a broader, more inclusive political platform.”

As opposition forces continue to hold back on formal announcements, political observers anticipate significant developments in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.

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