Opposition leaders are intensifying efforts to form a coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections, with a significant announcement expected this week.
The coalition, which includes prominent political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, is yet to reach consensus on two critical issues: the format of the coalition and the platform to adopt for the electoral contest.
Sunday's meeting at the Abuja Continental Hotel brought together key opposition figures including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, and a representative of former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Also in attendance were PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, former Information Minister Professor Jerry Gana, and various northern stakeholders.
The meeting, convened by the National Political Consultative Group, North, faced disruption when delegates from Jigawa State interrupted proceedings following a heated disagreement over state representation.
While some coalition members advocate for creating a fresh political platform, others prefer merging with an existing party. This disagreement has created a significant hurdle in the coalition's formation process.
Adding to the complexity, African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu claimed that his party had been selected as the coalition platform, a statement that reportedly surprised other stakeholders.
Further complicating matters, Peter Obi indicated he would contest on the Labour Party platform, a position that reportedly unsettled some coalition members who envisioned a unified front.
Meanwhile, the League of Northern Democrats (LND), through its convener Umar Ardo, has announced support for the National Opposition Coalition Group ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political analysts suggest that the success of this opposition coalition will largely depend on its ability to resolve internal differences and present a united front against the ruling APC, which has already begun preparations for the 2027 electoral contest.
