Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is reportedly in advanced talks with Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, to form a coalition for the 2027 elections, with Obi offered the vice presidency on a single-term ticket.
Sources privy to the discussions stated that Atiku and Obi met in the UK earlier this year, where Atiku proposed the coalition and the single-term presidency arrangement. Obi is said to be weighing the offer while consulting his loyalists.
The two have a political history, having run together in 2019 under the PDP banner but lost to then-President Muhammadu Buhari.
The coalition was publicly announced in Abuja on March 20, 2025, with other political figures like Nasir El-Rufai joining the alliance aimed at defeating President Bola Tinubu.
Despite the announcement, internal party crises in both PDP and LP have stalled progress, but sources say the coalition partners are finalizing details, mindful of the May 2026 deadline when most parties will name their candidates.
One insider said, “Atiku has agreed to a single four-year term, with Obi as running mate and eventual successor. They are ready to formalize this with a written agreement.”
Due to internal conflicts, the coalition is exploring the African Democratic Congress as a possible platform, with some loyalists already engaging with ADC leadership.
Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, declined to confirm the agreement but stressed the leaders’ commitment to a broad coalition to unseat the APC.
Peter Ahmeh, Obi’s loyalist, refused to comment on the single-term deal but emphasized Obi’s efforts to resolve LP’s internal issues.
Yunusa Tanko, coordinator of the Obedient Movement, denied any knowledge of the coalition deal.
ADC chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed ongoing talks with all stakeholders and promised a major announcement soon.
Within PDP, some members, like Diran Odeyemi, have criticized Atiku’s ambitions, urging him to step aside.
Meanwhile, Anthony Sani of the Arewa Consultative Forum welcomed the potential alliance, citing their previous collaboration and evolving political dynamics.
The coalition talks could significantly impact Nigeria’s political scene ahead of 2027.
