“Finding Alternative Political Party, Our Main Hurdle” – Anti-Tinubu Coalition

A coalition of opposition leaders aiming to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election has acknowledged that its primary challenge is identifying a viable political party to serve as its platform. The group, which has been negotiating its structure and operational framework, stated that while zoning has been a topic of discussion in political circles, it has not been formally addressed in their meetings.

The coalition, which includes key political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, is working to unite opposition forces. Other notable members include former Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Adamu, former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi.

In a statement released in Abuja, signed by Salihu Lukman, a former National Vice Chairman (Northwest) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the coalition emphasized that negotiations are at an advanced stage but remain ongoing. Lukman clarified that no final agreements have been reached, countering speculation that internal disputes have stalled progress.

He noted that two key issues are under negotiation: persuading leaders to set aside personal ambitions for the collective goal of contesting the 2027 elections and selecting the political party that will serve as the coalition’s platform. Lukman stressed that while zoning concerns have been raised by some members, they have not been formally discussed in coalition meetings.

According to Lukman, one of the coalition’s biggest obstacles is securing a registered political party. He alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has frustrated attempts to register new parties and that existing smaller parties, which failed to meet electoral thresholds in previous elections, face possible deregistration. The coalition has, therefore, been in talks with some established parties that have retained their legal status. However, Lukman suggested that these parties, like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are facing internal crises, potentially undermining their ability to serve as the coalition’s platform.

INEC has dismissed the allegations, insisting that any association that meets the legal requirements for party registration will be approved. The Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stated that the commission follows a transparent process and provides feedback to applicants if any issues arise during the registration process.

As the 2027 election approaches, the opposition coalition remains engaged in negotiations, seeking both unity among its leaders and a viable political platform to challenge the ruling APC.