Atiku-Obi alliance won’t threaten Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 – APC

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the potential alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi, asserting it cannot derail President Bola Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027.

Reacting to comments by Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, who suggested that the combined votes of Atiku and Obi (12 million) could have prevented Tinubu’s victory in 2023, APC National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim labeled such claims as unrealistic.

Ibrahim described Atiku and Obi as “strange bedfellows” and argued that merely combining votes from past elections does not translate to a winning formula. He emphasized that political success hinges on exploiting weaknesses within opposition ranks.

“It’s a dream gone wrong,” Ibrahim stated. “Globally, you don’t just add up votes from previous elections and assume that can unseat the winner. A smart winner takes advantage of cracks in the opposition. The simple majority decides the outcome, provided the necessary requirements are met. If this alliance is what they’re banking on, we can start celebrating 2027 now because they’ll face another resounding defeat.”

He added, “The APC is always steps ahead. We’ve even established a Progressive Institute where they can learn the art of politics and governance. They’re welcome to bring their notebooks and pens.

Opposition parties, however, have emphasized the need for a broader strategy to challenge the APC effectively. Drawing parallels to the coalition that ousted former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015, some argue that a unified front is critical.

Peter Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, confirmed that Obi remains open to working with like-minded individuals committed to building a better Nigeria, though not for power’s sake.

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) echoed this sentiment, stressing that defeating the APC requires more than an Atiku-Obi merger.

CUPP National Secretary Peter Ahmeh highlighted the importance of electoral reforms, stating, “A coalition can help, but the real challenge lies in ensuring free and fair elections. Without credible electoral processes, even the strongest coalition will falter under manipulation.”

Ahmeh called for transparency at polling units, referencing Ghana’s system as a model for credible elections. “Votes should be cast, counted, and results announced at the polling unit to eliminate opportunities for manipulation at collation centers,” he said.

He concluded, “With a determined electorate and a credible system, coalitions can strengthen the opposition’s chances. But the ultimate victory lies in the people’s resolve at the ballot box.”