Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, has dismissed the newly established opposition coalition involving Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai as ineffective and “dead on arrival.”
The coalition, which aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, has been met with strong criticism from Ata, who questioned its viability.
Speaking through his media aide, Seyi Olorunsola, in Kano, Ata praised President Tinubu’s administration for implementing substantial economic and political reforms since assuming office in 2023.
According to the minister, these reforms have contributed to stabilizing Nigeria’s economy and enhancing governance, earning public confidence and support.
Ata did not hold back in his critique of the opposition leaders. He described Atiku Abubakar as a “serial contester” who has consistently failed in his bids for the presidency. Nasir El-Rufai, he alleged, is a “desperate power seeker” whose political strategies have undermined his credibility.
Concerning Peter Obi, Ata accused him of promoting ethnic and religious divides, asserting that such tactics are unlikely to result in electoral success.
The minister argued that Nigeria has progressed beyond what he called “trial-and-error governance,” stating that citizens now reject leaders without clear ideological principles who rely solely on sentimental support.
He further highlighted that President Tinubu’s leadership style, which emphasizes adherence to the rule of law and democratic principles, has been crucial in addressing national challenges.
Referencing Tinubu’s intervention in the recent political crisis in Rivers State, Ata portrayed the president’s swift actions as a testament to effective leadership. He added that the coalition’s approach lacks credibility and is out of touch with the aspirations of Nigerians.
Concluding his remarks, Ata described the coalition as a group of “political jobbers” primarily seeking personal relevance rather than genuine governance.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to fostering positive change and expressed confidence that Nigerians would continue to support President Tinubu’s vision.
