Major opposition parties on Sunday denied claims of any ongoing discussions with Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), regarding a rumored merger. The rumor has been circulating since last week, suggesting a potential coalition to challenge the ruling party in the next election.
Labour Party (LP) spokesperson, Tanko Yunusa, and the National Publicity Secretary of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Ladipo Johnson, both refuted reports of any merger talks with the PDP.
The speculation had been fueled by statements made by Ibrahim Abdullahi, Deputy National Spokesman for the PDP, who claimed on a live political program that Atiku, Peter Obi (Labour Party), and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso (NNPP) were in discussions about forming an alliance to address Nigeria’s issues of hunger and insecurity ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Paul Ibe, Atiku’s media adviser, also echoed this sentiment, insisting that Atiku has been consistent in his calls for an opposition alliance to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges. According to Ibe, the opposition’s cooperation has become more urgent, given the economic struggles and insecurity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Ibe stated, “Atiku has consistently advocated for an alliance among opposition leaders. With Nigeria in its current state of economic distress and rising insecurity, forming a united front is more necessary than ever.”
However, when asked if any official communications had occurred between Atiku and other opposition figures, Ibe was hesitant, stating that such talks are not conducted “on the pages of newspapers.”
On the NNPP’s side, Ladipo Johnson clarified that no formal discussions had taken place between the PDP and his party, though he acknowledged the possibility of future talks.
Similarly, Kwankwaso dismissed the relevance of the PDP, claiming that the party “died” when he and his followers left. He expressed confidence in NNPP’s strength and their ability to win the 2027 presidential election.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party’s spokesperson, Tanko Yunusa, expressed doubt over the merger rumors. He emphasized that Peter Obi’s focus was on strengthening the party’s grassroots structure after learning from the shortcomings of the last election. Yunusa indicated that LP is concentrating on expanding its presence nationwide rather than merging with other parties.
Additionally, Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, cautioned Obi against leaving the Labour Party, warning that those encouraging him to do so are leading him on a “wild goose chase.” Umeh raised his concerns at a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Umuahia.
