Paul Ibe, spokesperson for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has confirmed that Atiku, Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai are in discussions about forming a political coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Ibe said the talks aim to build a united front to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that while no formal decision has been made, the ongoing discussions are driven by the aspirations of Nigerians seeking change.
“There have been ongoing discussions between Atiku Abubakar and some opposition leaders: Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai. Yes, it’s out there in the open,” Ibe said.
Atiku and Obi previously ran together on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket in 2019 but lost to then-President Muhammadu Buhari. Ibe hinted that their partnership remains politically viable, though he stressed that any final decision would rest with the individuals involved.
The possibility of a coalition has gained traction amid internal crises within major opposition parties. El-Rufai, who recently left the APC and aligned with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), is seen as a potential key player in the emerging alliance.
Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has been cautious about coalition talks, emphasizing his focus on uniting efforts to tackle poverty and national challenges rather than just electoral alliances.
