As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, political tensions are escalating. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asserting that it has failed to meet the expectations of Nigerians and lacks achievements to justify a re-election bid.
In a recent statement, Atiku emphasized the importance of democratic freedoms, stating that he harbors no resentment towards members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He highlighted that such political movements are inherent in a democratic society.
Addressing criticisms of his visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Atiku labeled the backlash as hypocritical, noting that political consultations across party lines are not unprecedented. He argued that the real issue at hand is the current administration’s performance, which he described as lacking in tangible achievements and marked by divisive strategies.
Contrary to reports of a potential alliance among opposition figures, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has denied any power-sharing agreement involving himself, Atiku, and Peter Obi. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Kwankwaso dismissed claims of a rotational presidency deal as baseless, expressing frustration over the spread of such misinformation. He criticized the PDP for employing manipulative tactics to secure northern votes, stating that such deceit contributed to his departure from the party.
Despite the denials, the PDP has indicated ongoing discussions aimed at uniting opposition leaders to challenge the APC in the upcoming elections. The party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, confirmed that talks are underway to bring together key figures like Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso, emphasizing the need for a consolidated front to address the nation’s challenges.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the 2027 elections are shaping up to be a critical juncture for Nigeria, with various parties strategizing to address the country’s pressing issues and chart a new course for its future.
