Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has held strategic meetings with leaders of the Action Democratic Party amid growing political realignments and speculation about a possible alliance involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sources familiar with the discussions describe them as exploratory, focused on building a broader opposition platform capable of challenging the ruling party. While no formal agreement has been announced, the talks have intensified conversations about coalition politics and third force movements.
Political observers say the meetings highlight the fluid nature of Nigeria’s pre election landscape, where negotiations often begin years before official campaigns. The emergence of potential alliances suggests that opposition figures may be seeking to avoid fragmented voting patterns that weakened past efforts.
The rumoured alignment between Obi and Kwankwaso has already generated debate among supporters, with some viewing a coalition as a practical path to electoral competitiveness while others worry about ideological differences and leadership rivalries.
Analysts note that Atiku’s outreach to smaller parties like the ADP could signal a strategy of building layered partnerships that combine grassroots structures with established political networks. Such coalitions, they say, could influence both presidential and legislative contests.
Party insiders caution that early talks do not always translate into final agreements, as negotiations over ticket arrangements, zoning considerations, and policy direction often prove contentious.
For voters, the developments point to an evolving political environment where alliances may reshape traditional party boundaries. Observers say the coming months will reveal whether these conversations solidify into formal coalitions or remain exploratory engagements.
