As political alliances continue to shift in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, pressure is mounting on opposition coalitions to reconcile personal ambitions and agree on a unified platform capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Former presidential candidate Chief Martin Onovo has emphasized the importance of unity, warning that no single opposition party stands a realistic chance of defeating President Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) alone. He insists that only a strong and coordinated alliance can succeed in 2027.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria, Onovo described the coalition effort—spearheaded by former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and other prominent figures—as a positive development. Drawing from his past experience leading the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), he stressed that a united front could decisively win the next election—provided it is not undermined from within.
“If the coalition avoids self-sabotage, it can win with overwhelming support. Unity is essential,” Onovo said.
Coalition Struggles with Internal Challenges
Despite growing momentum, the opposition coalition faces significant internal hurdles, especially concerning the presidential ambitions of key figures and the choice of a party platform. Notably, both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) have distanced themselves from the coalition, narrowing options to parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In an effort to navigate these complexities, various coalition blocs have established committees tasked with charting a clear path forward. Defections from opposition parties to the ruling APC have further complicated the landscape, strengthening the incumbent’s hand ahead of 2027.
The League of Northern Democrats (LND), while supportive of the coalition idea, has opted to form a new party, citing concerns over internal power struggles if it merges with an existing one.
Key figures associated with the coalition movement include Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Chibuike Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal, John Oyegun, and Rauf Aregbesola. The group has also attracted support from prominent members of the PDP, LP, and even some within the APC, such as Chief Ben Obi and former Attorney General Abubakar Malami.
ADC Chairman: Coalition Actors Have Agreed to Unite
Addressing concerns over internal rivalries, ADC National Chairman Chief Okey Ralph Nwosu said the coalition’s leaders have reached an agreement to support whoever emerges from a transparent selection process.
“All the key actors have committed to backing the eventual candidate of the coalition. Transparency in the selection process is the key,” Nwosu said.
Though they have not formally declared their intentions, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Chibuike Amaechi are widely believed to be eyeing the coalition’s presidential ticket.
SDP Still in Talks as Dalung Criticizes Defections
Former Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, confirmed ongoing talks between the coalition and SDP leadership, though he noted that details of their recent meeting remain undisclosed.
Dalung, a chieftain of the SDP, also commented on the wave of defections into the APC, dismissing it as a superficial trend driven by political opportunism rather than genuine support for Tinubu.
He likened the defectors to “sinners seeking forgiveness,” referencing a past remark by Adams Oshiomhole that politicians’ transgressions are forgiven once they join the APC.
“These are individuals who have committed serious wrongs against Nigerians. They’re joining APC not because they believe in its vision, but to escape accountability,” Dalung said, adding that these defections may create more problems than solutions for the ruling party.
Adebayo a Force in SDP, Says Dalung
Addressing concerns over potential threats to Prince Adewole Adebayo’s presidential ambition within the SDP, Dalung strongly defended Adebayo’s leadership and influence.
He described Adebayo as a key figure in reviving the party’s image since 2023, second only to Chief MKO Abiola in terms of contribution to the SDP.
“No one has promoted the SDP like Adebayo in recent times. His consistent media presence, commitment to good governance, and refusal to play politics for personal gain make him a formidable contender in any arrangement the party adopts,” Dalung stated.
Even if Adebayo does not emerge as the coalition’s candidate, Dalung insists he will remain an integral part of the movement for national renewal.
“He’s in politics to serve, not for self-aggrandizement. If the process is fair, he will accept the outcome and continue working for a better Nigeria,” he added.
