Opposition Leaders Intensify Merger Bid for 2027, Remain Silent on Coalition’s Presidential Candidate.

Opposition political heavyweights, including political economist Prof Pat Utomi, 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and NNPP’s Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso are engaging in talks with stakeholders for a potential merger, Politics Nigeria has learnt.

The merger is aimed at clinching power from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

The Coalition of United Political Parties’ National Secretary, Peter Ameh, along with Utomi and Atiku’s media aide Paul Ibe, made the latest revelation.

Recall that Atiku, after the Supreme Court upheld President Bola Tinubu’s win in the 2023 election, proposed the merger to challenge APC’s reign. The former VP said he is committed to remaining active in politics and called for a united front against the ruling party.

Former governors Kwankwaso and Obi, both eyeing the 2027 presidency under NNPP and LP, respectively, have signalled their intent.

LP’s Presidential Campaign Council spokesperson, Yunusa Tanko, recently said the public is weary of “old stock” politicians like Atiku.

When asked whether Obi would contest the 2027 election, he said, “That one is sure. There is no ambiguity on that.”

Prof Pat Utomi, leader of the National Consultative Front, disclosed plans to establish a new political party, which will be a departure from the current trend of hastily formed parties. Utomi proposed to build a coalition with clear ideologies and values and intends to invite those who align with these principles.

Utomi engaged with opposition figures, including Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso. He revealed plans for an all-inclusive stakeholders’ meeting at the end of January and the recruitment of 10,000 volunteers per state to build a community-based political movement.

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, confirmed the ongoing merger talks