Coalition Crisis Looms: Atiku Speaks Out As PDP Governors Draw Battle Lines For 2027

Atiku Reaffirms Coalition as Key to Defeating Tinubu in 2027 Despite PDP Governors’ Opposition

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has maintained that forming a broad-based coalition remains the most realistic path to unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 polls, stressed the need for opposition unity to pose a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, this stance comes in contrast to a recent declaration by the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, rejecting any coalition or merger plans.

The governors, after a meeting in Ibadan on Monday, stated firmly that the PDP would not engage in any coalition talks. Instead, they reaffirmed the party’s commitment to remaining an independent and strong opposition force.

Governor Mohammed, speaking on behalf of the 11 PDP governors in attendance, clarified that while the PDP would not be part of any merger or coalition, the party remains open to welcoming individuals, groups, or political parties that share its mission of reclaiming power in 2027.

“Amid widespread speculation about a potential merger or coalition of opposition forces, the Forum has resolved that the PDP will not enter into any coalition or merger. However, the PDP welcomes any party, individuals, or groups willing to join it in the quest to restore effective leadership in 2027,” Mohammed said.

Atiku Reacts to the Governors’ Stand

In response to the governors’ decision, Atiku expressed disappointment but reaffirmed his belief in the coalition initiative, describing it as a people-driven, pan-Nigerian movement.

Speaking through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, in an interview with Punch, Atiku emphasized that while governors are important stakeholders, so are ordinary Nigerians and other key actors in the democratic space. He said the governors’ position only highlights the need for deeper consultation moving forward.

“The governors are crucial stakeholders in any party, not just the PDP,” Ibe noted. “But so are everyday Nigerians. This coalition is a national project—a movement beyond political parties, aimed at rescuing the country from the current trajectory.”