Atiku Proposes One-Term Presidency, Offers Peter Obi Vice-Presidential Slot Ahead of 2027 Polls

 

A significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape is underway as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reportedly offered Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, the vice-presidential slot on a one-term joint ticket for the 2027 general elections. Sources close to the ongoing coalition discussions have revealed that this strategic proposal aims to unify opposition forces against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid.

The confidential meeting, said to have taken place earlier this year in the United Kingdom, brought Atiku and Obi together to discuss the future of the opposition coalition. Atiku pledged to serve only one term as president before transferring power to Obi, an arrangement designed to strengthen their united front. Obi, however, remains cautious and is currently consulting with his loyalists and political allies before committing to the deal publicly.

This potential alliance is not unprecedented. The pair previously joined forces in the 2019 elections, with Obi serving as Atiku’s running mate under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) banner. Although that effort did not succeed in unseating then-President Muhammadu Buhari, the partnership laid groundwork for renewed collaboration.

March 2025 saw both politicians join forces again alongside former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and other prominent figures to form a grand opposition coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Rumors of an Atiku-Obi reunion have circulated since, though the specifics were kept under wraps pending ongoing negotiations.

A well-informed insider revealed that the coalition’s leaders are aware of the ticking clock, with the deadline for presidential primaries set for May 2026. The source explained, “Most parties will have unveiled their candidates by then. This coalition is a strategic move to consolidate opposition strength and avoid splitting votes.”

Negotiations reportedly reached a stage where Obi has given his in-principle consent to the offer, but he seeks consensus from his core supporters before making any official announcements. “Atiku and Obi have both agreed to sign a written agreement if necessary,” the insider said, highlighting the seriousness of the proposed power-sharing deal.

Complications within the PDP and Labour Party have prompted coalition members to consider alternative platforms, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerging as a potential neutral ground. Political insiders disclosed that talks between coalition leaders and ADC representatives are ongoing, given the internal crises plaguing both major opposition parties.

The ADC’s National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, confirmed the party’s involvement in the coalition discussions. He emphasized the ADC’s ambition to become a “mega African political party” by attracting various stakeholders and former deregistered parties. Nwosu expressed optimism about announcing progress in the coalition talks soon, underscoring the party’s commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s political future.

Despite the growing momentum, skepticism persists. PDP National Executive Committee member Diran Odeyemi criticized Atiku’s political aspirations, asserting that Atiku’s time to lead the party has passed. Odeyemi questioned the legitimacy of Atiku’s offer to Obi, saying, “How do you offer what you don’t have? His desperation has damaged the PDP.”

Conversely, northern elder statesman and Arewa Consultative Forum chieftain Anthony Sani welcomed the proposed alliance, viewing it as a healthy demonstration of democracy. Sani pointed out that the North-West and South-West geopolitical zones, which are pivotal due to their large voter populations, could benefit from such a coalition. He also noted the APC’s growing influence in the South-South region, underscoring the high stakes involved in the 2027 elections.

Representatives from both camps remain publicly reserved. Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, acknowledged ongoing talks but refrained from revealing details. Meanwhile, Peter Ahmeh, a close associate of Obi and Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, stressed the importance of unity and adherence to democratic norms to prevent President Tinubu’s continued dominance, especially in the South.

The political chessboard is actively being rearranged as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections. The success or failure of this coalition could shape the country’s democratic trajectory and determine whether the ruling APC maintains power or the opposition manages to mount a formidable challenge.

Only time will tell if this potential Atiku-Obi alliance will become the centerpiece of Nigeria’s opposition strategy or remain an ambitious but unrealized pact.