Two of Nigeria's most prominent opposition figures have announced they have switched parties ahead of the 2027 elections. Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, who finished third and fourth, respectively, in the 2023 presidential race, both joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) on Sunday, May 3, raising the prospect of a joint ticket to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
On Monday, May 4, reports emerged of alleged ongoing contacts between the NDC and allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, with suggestions of a possible midweek announcement. Responding to the claims, Atiku's media adviser, Paul Ibe, told Vanguard that there were no such discussions involving the former vice president or former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola.
Ibe said when contacted: "If that is the case, I will be the first to know. I don't think that there's anything like that."
Background on the Political Shifts
The recent defections have sent shockwaves through Nigeria's political landscape. Peter Obi, who ran under the Labour Party in 2023, and Rabiu Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria Peoples Party candidate, are now aligned under the NDC banner. This move is widely seen as an attempt to consolidate opposition forces against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku's Position Remains Unchanged
Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the last two elections, has not indicated any intention to leave his party. His media aide's denial suggests that the former vice president is not currently engaged in negotiations with the NDC, despite speculation. The NDC, a relatively new political platform, is positioning itself as a major opposition force, but Atiku's camp appears to be maintaining distance.
Political analysts note that the opposition landscape remains fragmented, with multiple parties and candidates vying for influence. The alleged talks between the NDC and Atiku's allies could have reshaped the dynamics, but the denial indicates that Atiku is not yet ready to abandon the PDP. The coming weeks may reveal further developments as parties prepare for the 2027 election cycle.
