As the nation continues to navigate its transitional phase, prominent figures Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Peter Obi are currently involved in discussions exploring the feasibility of a merger. The overarching objective of these deliberations is to establish a robust political party that could more effectively present a challenge to the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), according to reliable sources from THISDAY.
These deliberations among the trio of political leaders have been underway for a considerable period. It was reported that the discussions originated with talks between Atiku, who stood as the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the previous presidential election.
Following the initial success of these discussions, the scope expanded to include Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) and a prominent figure associated with the OBIdient Movement. This expansion came about after the consensus of the other two stakeholders to involve Obi.
The ongoing discussions are said to be in their preliminary stages and revolve around two central principles. The first principle, as per insiders, involves the trio’s decision to patiently await the outcome of election petitions currently being deliberated in the courts. The outcome of these proceedings would subsequently guide their second phase of decision-making in the event of an unfavorable court ruling.
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Insiders have hinted that the leaders remain hopeful that the presidential election tribunal will demonstrate fairness and impartiality. They anticipate that the tribunal will render a verdict establishing the inadequacy of the election that ushered President Bola Tinubu into office when subjected to thorough electoral scrutiny. This would ostensibly prompt necessary action. It is speculated that should this transpire, the tribunal might call for a re-election or rerun, potentially leading to a merger of these leaders for the election. This collective effort would then challenge both Tinubu and the APC in this renewed opportunity.
Nevertheless, in the event that the tribunal’s judgment diverges from their expectations, the leaders are reportedly contemplating the formation of a resilient political party in preparation for the 2027 general election. This strategy is devised with the intent of positioning themselves to assume power from the incumbent APC.
A credible source revealed, “Initial discussions began between Kwankwaso and Atiku, and they have concurred on including Peter Obi in the process of establishing a substantial opposition post-court proceedings. While the specific leadership within the opposition has not yet been addressed, this aspect is deferred until the conclusion of the court cases.”
The source further stated, “Following the resolution of the court cases, their plan involves coordination and collaboration for a potential re-election bid or a united front in preparation for the 2027 election campaign. They are contemplating the formation of a resilient political party that encompasses the PDP, Labour, and NNPP.”
