Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is actively discussing a potential coalition with Labour Party’s Peter Obi and ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai ahead of the 2027 presidential election, his spokesperson has confirmed.
Paul Ibe revealed the ongoing negotiations during Thursday’s appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, acknowledging widespread speculation about an opposition alliance to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress.
“There have been ongoing discussions between Atiku Abubakar and some opposition leaders: Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai. Yes, it’s out there in the open,” Ibe stated, adding that discussions continue with a final position expected based on “the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.”
When asked about the possibility of recreating the 2019 Atiku-Obi ticket that ran under the Peoples Democratic Party, Ibe suggested the combination remains attractive.
“That ticket was viable in 2019, and it’s still viable today. But it is left to the individuals to be able to come to a determination as to how they proceed,” he explained, urging patience as talks continue.
The coalition discussions have gained traction amid ongoing crises within the PDP and other opposition parties. El-Rufai, who recently left the APC citing personal and political reasons, has since joined the Social Democratic Party, which observers view as a potential platform for the alliance.
While Obi has previously downplayed formal alliance suggestions, he has expressed interest in coalitions focused on combating poverty and addressing Nigeria’s societal challenges.
The 2019 Atiku-Obi partnership was defeated by then-President Muhammadu Buhari’s APC administration.
