Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, hosted a closed-door session with ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar. At the meeting, key members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) joined discussions in Abuja. Separately, Obi engaged in talks with Sule Lamido, the former governor of Jigawa State. Additionally, he conferred with Bukola Saraki, the former Senate President. The gatherings fueled speculation about a potential political coalition preceding the 2027 general elections.
Peter Obi affiliated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) until 2022 before transitioning to the Labour Party. After placing third in the February 23 presidential election, won by Bola Tinubu of the APC, Peter Obi transitioned parties. Atiku attributed his loss to Tinubu to Obi’s defection from the PDP.
Observers argued that a combination of Atiku’s and Obi’s votes could have secured victory against Tinubu, who garnered a significant lead. The meeting marked the first public encounter between Obi and Atiku since the elections, drawing attention on online platforms and social media. Despite running on the PDP joint ticket in 2019, both Atiku and Obi faced defeat by former President Muhammadu Buhari of the APC. Internal conflicts led Obi, Atiku’s former running mate, to contest the 2023 presidential election as the Labour Party candidate.
Atiku’s media advisor hinted at ongoing coalition talks ahead of the 2027 presidential election, confirming Obi’s brief meeting with Atiku.The PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader expressed anticipation for opposition unity to challenge President Tinubu in 2027. Meanwhile, Obi’s campaign spokesperson emphasized discussions aimed at rescuing Nigeria from the ruling APC’s grip. The LP National Publicity Secretary characterized the meeting as timely, hinting at further engagements.
Moreover, the APC dismissed merger speculations, asserting confidence in its support base and readiness for the elections. However, legal and political experts expressed concerns about the LP-PDP meeting’s timing and feasibility. They suggested that the alliance between Atiku and Obi might face challenges due to pressure from their supporters, raising doubts about its practicality.
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