Peter Obi, the former Anambra governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has been actively meeting with key political figures, including New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to discuss potential alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. Dr. Yusuf Tanko, the former spokesperson for Obi’s presidential campaign, revealed these developments in a recent statement.
“Nigerians need a merger in 2027 that will take them out of the woods,” Tanko emphasized.
He highlighted Obi’s extensive outreach efforts, which include dialogues with industry leaders, technocrats, students, and prominent political figures.
“Obi has been meeting with owners of industries, technocrats, students, and political gladiators,” Tanko said.
Specifically, Tanko mentioned ongoing discussions with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. “We had met with him,” Tanko confirmed.
He also noted engagements with other political parties such as the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“Most of the political parties will be reached out to. They are already having meetings among themselves. You need to have a conglomerate of grounded political parties who are interested in getting Nigeria out of the woods,” he added, stressing the need for a unified front.
However, not all political analysts see these potential alliances as feasible. Former federal lawmaker Tajudeen Yusuf expressed doubts about a merger between Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
“They worked together in 2019. It would not be out of place if they worked together again. However, I don’t see the possibility,” Yusuf stated.
He referenced a recent meeting between Obi and Atiku that sparked speculation about a merger. Following the meeting, Atiku reiterated his commitment to contesting future elections.
“Alhaji Atiku Abubakar came out to say that he would continue to contest as long as he is alive and healthy. To me, that was to send the signal to especially the people who may have the notion that he would step down for Obi. A statement a week later clarified that. I believe both Atiku and Obi will contest,” Yusuf noted.
As discussions and strategic meetings continue, the potential for a significant political merger in 2027 remains a topic of keen interest and speculation among Nigerians.