Can an Atiku-Obi Coalition Unseat Tinubu? Here’s What Nigerians Are Saying
The Nigerian political space is once again heating up with the whispers — and now open declarations — of a strategic coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. At the center of this storm is a possible alliance between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi. But can this alliance really unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu? And more importantly, how are Nigerians reacting to the idea?
The Birth of the Coalition
In March 2025, Atiku confirmed what had long been rumored: a coalition is in the works. The plan? Unite Nigeria’s fractured opposition to present a formidable front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. Apart from Peter Obi, names like former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have also popped up as part of the coalition.
Their joint statement, sparked by the federal government’s controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, made it clear — they see Tinubu’s presidency as a threat to democracy and are ready to unite across party lines to defeat him.
An Atiku-Obi Ticket?
While the coalition itself is gaining traction, what’s truly stirring the pot is the idea of Atiku running for president again, this time with Peter Obi as his vice. It’s a reversal of their 2019 ticket under the PDP — except this time, Obi comes with a massive, independent following of youth and reform-minded Nigerians.
But is Obi willing to play second fiddle again? That’s where things get complicated.
The People React
On social media, the backlash was swift. A random poll on X (formerly Twitter) by hwdlineswave.ng showed that 70% of respondents opposed the idea of Atiku as the presidential candidate and Obi as his running mate. Only 30% supported it.
Many of Obi’s supporters — the “Obidients” — are clear: they want Peter Obi on the ballot as the main man. Anything less feels like a betrayal of the movement that nearly shocked the nation in 2023.
One user, @DrVic_Exotic, summed it up:
“Obidients will support the ticket with Peter Obi as the presidential candidate and Atiku as the vice. Alternatively, Atiku can be an elder statesman and support Obi and his running mate. We will forever remember him for his patriotism.”
Another user, @Big_Ben_21, was even more blunt:
“Atiku should play the big Daddy role in 2027 elections.”
The message is clear: the base that fueled Peter Obi’s 2023 surprise run is not interested in a second-tier role for him in 2027.They say in one voice – If Peter Obi tries this, then his political career is over
What Tinubu’s Camp Thinks
Not surprisingly, the ruling party isn’t impressed. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga dismissed the coalition as a gathering of “frustrated sore losers” driven by “hate” and “self-interest.” According to him, Tinubu is focused on delivering governance and won’t be distracted by political gimmicks.
Can It Work?
There’s no doubt that a united opposition — featuring Atiku’s old-guard influence and Obi’s youth-powered momentum — could pose a serious threat to the APC. But the big question remains: who leads the ticket?
If this coalition is to work, it needs more than just political arithmetic. It needs humility, strategy, and a clear vision that resonates with everyday Nigerians — many of whom are still grappling with economic hardship and insecurity.
Final Thoughts
The coming months will reveal more. Will Atiku step aside and support Obi? Will the coalition settle on a different structure entirely? Or will ego and ambition tear it apart before it ever takes off?
One thing is certain: 2027 is shaping up to be another historic moment in Nigeria’s democracy
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