2027: Coalition Leaders Move to Unveil Mega Party to Challenge Tinubu’s APC
ABUJA — A formidable coalition of opposition leaders, disgruntled members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and civil society groups is intensifying efforts to form a mega party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition aims to unseat President Bola Tinubu and address what they describe as the “failures” of his administration, particularly in economic management and national unity.
The Coalition: Who’s Involved?
The coalition brings together a diverse group of prominent political figures, including:
- Atiku Abubakar: Former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate.
- Peter Obi: Former Anambra Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate.
- Nasir El-Rufai: Former Kaduna State Governor and APC stalwart.
- Babachir Lawal: Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Tinubu’s estranged ally.
- Chibuike Amaechi: Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Transport Minister.
- John Kayode Fayemi: Former Ekiti State Governor and ex-Minister of Solid Minerals.
These leaders are joined by aggrieved APC members, civil society organizations, and regional stakeholders, creating a broad-based alliance to challenge the APC’s dominance.
The Motivation: Why a Mega Party?
The coalition’s formation is driven by several factors:
- Economic Discontent: Critics argue that Tinubu’s economic policies, including fuel subsidy removal and currency devaluation, have worsened living conditions for Nigerians.
- Regional Grievances: Northern stakeholders, in particular, feel marginalized under Tinubu’s administration and see the coalition as a platform to address their concerns.
- Democratic Renewal: The coalition aims to restore transparency, accountability, and development-focused governance.
The Challenge: Selecting a Political Platform
One of the coalition’s biggest hurdles is agreeing on a political platform to contest the 2027 elections. Salihu Lukman, former APC National Vice Chairman (Northwest), revealed that negotiations are in advanced stages, with leaders focusing on setting aside personal ambitions to prioritize Nigeria’s democratic development.
“The main focus is getting leaders to agree to work together. There is strong recognition that prospective members should set aside personal ambitions to contest the 2027 elections,” Lukman stated.
The Vision: A Government of National Unity
The coalition envisions a government of national unity that prioritizes collective leadership and inclusive governance. Prof. Pat Utomi, leader of the National Consultative Front (NCFront), emphasized the need to move away from the “Buhari or ‘Baba sope’ approach” that hindered collective decision-making in the past.
“Leadership of the new order must be collective. No more of the Buhari or ‘Baba sope’ approach that got in the way of a collective good goal in the past,” Utomi said.
The Strategy: Building a Broad-Based Alliance
The coalition is working to:
- Unite Opposition Forces: Bringing together the PDP, Labour Party, and other smaller parties under a single umbrella.
- Leverage Civil Society: Partnering with civil society organizations to mobilize grassroots support.
- Address Regional Concerns: Ensuring the coalition’s agenda resonates with all geopolitical zones, particularly the North, which feels alienated under Tinubu’s administration.
The Road Ahead: Formal Announcement Expected
While discussions are ongoing, the coalition has yet to finalize its structure or modus operandi. Formal announcements, including the composition of membership and framework for contesting the 2027 elections, are expected once negotiations are concluded.
