Atiku, Obi React to Viral Report on Power-Sharing Deal for 2027

Presidential hopefuls Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have both denied claims that they have reached a power-sharing agreement ahead of the 2027 general elections. The denial follows reports suggesting Atiku had offered Obi the vice-presidential slot on a joint ticket, promising to serve only one term. The speculation further claimed that the offer was discussed during a private meeting in the United Kingdom and that Obi was trying to secure support from his political base for the alliance.

On Monday, Obi dismissed the reports as politically motivated and misleading. He emphasized that he has not agreed to serve as anyone’s deputy, insisting that the focus should remain on solving Nigeria’s pressing challenges rather than chasing political positions. Speaking during a visit to the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kubwa, where he donated N20 million to support a hospital and school, Obi reiterated that his political mission is centered on good governance, not appointments.

Atiku, through his media adviser Paul Ibe, also refuted the story, stating that discussions among opposition leaders, including Obi, are still in the early stages and are focused on forming a credible alternative platform for Nigerians. He cautioned against premature speculation, saying that such rumours only derail the progress being made.

Obi echoed this sentiment, saying his commitment lies in combating poverty, hunger, and inadequate healthcare. “Politics for me is not about position,” he said. “It is about doing the right thing.” He emphasized the need to focus on issues like education and social welfare rather than speculative alliances.

The Obidient Movement, Obi’s core support base, also issued a strong denial. National Coordinator Dr Yunusa Tanko described the report as baseless and misleading. Director of Strategic Communication and Media, Hajiya Nana Kazaure, clarified that while discussions with political partners continue, no agreement has been reached. She reaffirmed Obi’s commitment to the Labour Party and stated that any change in political alignment would be communicated directly by him.

Political analysts remain divided on the implications. Professor Gbade Ojo described the idea of a coalition between Atiku and Obi as a “risky gamble,” arguing that public perception of both men could hinder such an alliance. He believes that Obi’s rejection may be strategic, with an eye on a future post-Tinubu era.

Dr Ibrahim Yahaya of Al-Hikmah University suggested that Obi’s recent comments point to a divergence in political paths, making a revived alliance with Atiku unlikely. He advised Obi to build a broader national coalition, particularly in the North, to strengthen his chances in 2027.

However, Abubakar Ibrahim of the Federal University of Lafia believes a joint ticket could be formidable, noting that unity among opposition parties is increasingly necessary given their weakened state. Kaduna-based analyst Lukman Abubakar added that Obi’s clear focus on national issues demonstrates strategic discipline, and that early positioning by political figures signals the start of an intense pre-2027 realignment.

Both camps continue to emphasize issue-based politics and deny any formal deal, urging the public and media to avoid speculation and focus on solutions to Nigeria’s deep-rooted problems.