OBI HOLDS COALITION TALKS WITH ATIKU, SARAKI, LAMIDO AHEAD OF 2027 POLLS

Key opposition figures have initiated coalition talks ahead of the 2027 polls, signaling early maneuvering in the political landscape just one year into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi engaged in discushions with his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) counterpart, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar at his residence in Abuja yesterday.

Additionally, Obi also met with two PDP chieftains, foformer Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido at their residences in Abuja.

Although details of the meetings remain undisclosed, Obi’s spokesperson, Yunusa Tanko, emphasized Obi’s commitment to a Nigeria that benefits all its citizens, especially the poor and underprivileged. 

Tanko stated that the discussions centred on addressing the nation’s challenges, particularly the dire situation in the Northern regions.

Atiku, in a social media post, shared photos of his meeting with Obi, indicating a proactive effort to unite the opposition. 

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, explained the importance of opposition unity, hinting at positive discussions aimed at providing better options for Nigerian citizens.

He said: “Yes, they met at His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s residence for about 20 minutes this afternoon (yesterday). It was held behind closed doors. So, we wouldn’t know exactly what was discussed.

“We can only guess that it was in furtherance of efforts towards offering Nigerian citizens much better options.

“What is important is that there have been calls for the opposition to coalesce into a sstrong force and surely, they must have had very positive discussions on some issues of significance. But what we don’t know yet is the exact details of their discussion.”

The discussion between Atiku and Obi comes against a backdrop of internal strife within both the PDP and the LP.

The PDP, grappling with leadership crises and defections, faces challenges in maintaining its membership. 

Similarly, the LP is divided, especially in its stronghold of the Southeast, where key members are defecting.

Observers note that while these talks suggest a potential coalition between the PDP and LP, the exact direction and impact of such a coalition remain uncertain.