Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is reportedly extending an offer to Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate from 2023, to take on the vice-presidential position on a joint ticket for the upcoming 2027 elections, with an agreement for a single-term presidency.
Reliable sources involved in the coalition discussions have indicated that this proposal was first broached during a meeting in the UK earlier this year. Atiku has agreed to serve a single four-year term, with Obi positioned as his running mate.
Obi is said to be consulting with his supporters before formally accepting the offer. The two politicians share a history, having run together in 2019 under the PDP banner, although they were defeated by Muhammadu Buhari.
On 20 March 2025, Atiku, Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and others announced a coalition in Abuja aimed at challenging President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, internal strife within the PDP and LP has hindered progress.
A party insider revealed, “By May 2026, parties will announce their candidates. The coalition is being finalised, with Atiku and Obi agreeing on the single-term arrangement and preparing to sign an agreement.”
Due to the ongoing crises within the PDP and LP, the coalition is considering the African Democratic Congress as a potential platform. Some loyalists have begun engaging with ADC leadership or have joined the party.
Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, declined to comment on the proposed agreement but emphasised both leaders’ commitment to forming a coalition aimed at unseating the APC.
Peter Ahmeh, a loyalist to Obi, refrained from commenting on the single-term deal but affirmed Obi’s dedication to addressing the LP’s internal issues.
Yunusa Tanko, the coordinator of the Obedient Movement, stated he was unaware of the coalition agreement.
ADC chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed that discussions with stakeholders are ongoing and promised a significant announcement in the near future.
Within the PDP, some members, such as Diran Odeyemi, have urged Atiku to relinquish his presidential ambitions, arguing that his persistence could be counterproductive.
Anthony Sani from the Arewa Consultative Forum welcomed the potential alliance, noting their previous collaboration and the shifting political landscape.
If finalised, this coalition could significantly alter Nigeria’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
