APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje dismisses Atiku Abubakar’s opposition coalition, stating it lacks unity and political influence to challenge President Tinubu in 2027. He insists Tinubu’s leadership ensures his re-election. The opposition also criticizes emergency rule in Rivers State, demanding Governor Fubara’s reinstatement and judicial intervention.
Amid growing political realignments in Nigeria’s opposition camp, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje has dismissed efforts by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his allies to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Speaking through his aide, Oliver Okpala, Ganduje ridiculed the opposition’s coalition, arguing that it was an alliance of politically displaced figures with no solid foundation. He expressed confidence that Tinubu’s leadership would secure him another term, citing his administration’s achievements since assuming office.
“No gathering of politicians without a clear base or unified ideology can stop Tinubu’s re-election,” Ganduje asserted. “These individuals are driven by personal ambition rather than a collective vision for Nigeria.”
The coalition, which Atiku unveiled in Abuja, mirrors the 2013 merger that helped form the APC. It includes former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-SGF Babachir Lawal, and former APC National Working Committee member Salihu Lukman. Labour Party’s Peter Obi was represented by his ally, Tanko Yinusa, while other key figures like Kayode Fayemi and Rotimi Amaechi were absent but reportedly involved.
However, the ruling party remains unshaken. Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, dismissed the coalition as a failed political stunt, branding Atiku, El-Rufai, and Obi as “restless political travelers” seeking relevance. He argued that Atiku’s repeated election losses, El-Rufai’s controversial reputation, and Obi’s divisive tactics would prevent them from gaining public trust.
The opposition also raised concerns about the situation in Rivers State, criticizing the emergency rule as an attack on democracy. They called for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, demanding that the judiciary intervene to uphold constitutional order.
Despite these tensions, Ganduje insists that the opposition lacks the unity or influence to derail Tinubu’s re-election bid. “Nigerians will back Tinubu because of his leadership, not because of the noise from those who couldn’t hold their own parties together,” he said.
