Kehinde Fajobi
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the possibility of any opposition coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi, defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Bala Ibrahim, APC’s National Publicity Director, made this statement during an interview with The Punch on Tuesday, responding to comments from Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe.
Ibe had claimed that Atiku and Obi were prepared to join forces to “kick out the incompetent and clueless administration of the APC.”
Ibrahim ridiculed the idea, calling it a “dream gone wrong.”
He said, “All over the world, you don’t add up votes from opposition candidates and hope to use it to topple the winner. A smart winner capitalises on divisions within the opposition. If this is their strategy, we can already start celebrating 2027 because they will be severely beaten again.”
He added, “We are happy they are learning lessons from the superior antics of the ruling APC. Now that they admit they are learning, they should prepare for new tutorials in 2027.
“The APC has even opened a Progressive Institute for them to come with their books and biro to learn about progressivism.”
Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, had earlier pointed out that the combined votes of Atiku and Obi in the 2023 election, totalling over 12 million, would have been enough to defeat Tinubu.
He urged both leaders to unite to save Nigeria from further hardship under APC governance.
Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, said the former Anambra governor remains open to collaboration with anyone who shares his vision for a better Nigeria.
He emphasised that Obi’s commitment to reform goes beyond alliances with specific individuals or parties.
“This dedication stems from his unshakeable optimism in the country’s potential and focus on the welfare and prosperity of all citizens,” Ibrahim said.
However, not everyone agrees a coalition is the solution.
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) stressed the need for credible elections and trustworthy leaders rather than just political alliances.
CUPP National Secretary Peter Ahmeh in an interview with The Punch, said, “While a coalition can help defeat the APC, the most important coalition we need is one that ensures free and fair elections.
“The Republic of Ghana has shown this by deciding elections directly at polling units. Nigeria must adopt this system to prevent manipulation.”
SDP National Chairman Shehu Gabam voiced scepticism about coalitions, citing a trust deficit among political parties.
He said Nigerians are more interested in credible individuals who can drive change.
“The trust deficit among parties may lead to crisis. People want individuals with a record of service and creativity,” Gabam said.
Similarly, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) National Chairman Sly Ezeokenwa stated that APGA is open to alliances with other progressives.
“We are ready to work with other forces to build a Nigeria we can all be proud of,” he said.
Even within the opposition, some questioned the viability of an Atiku-Obi alliance.
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said both leaders share responsibility for the hardships Nigerians face today.
“Atiku and Obi coming together is illusionary because they have not committed themselves to unity,” Osadolor said.
“If they had worked together in 2023, Nigerians wouldn’t be in this pain. Still, if they unite for 2027, they stand a chance, but they must manage their egos.”
As discussions continue, the APC remains confident in its dominance, dismissing any threat from opposition coalitions.