The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the possibility of an alliance between opposition leaders Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi as a threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. APC National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim stated that the opposition lacks the cohesion and strategy to challenge the ruling party effectively.

Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, recently suggested that a coalition between the former Vice President and the Labour Party’s Obi could unseat the APC, citing their combined 12 million votes from the 2023 election. However, Ibrahim mocked this notion, asserting that APC’s strength and strategies would ensure another victory.

Opposition parties, including the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), have acknowledged that a coalition could enhance their chances but emphasized the need for electoral reforms and credible leadership over political alliances. CUPP National Secretary Peter Ahmeh stressed the importance of free and fair elections, while SDP Chairman Shehu Gabam called for a focus on assembling credible leaders rather than relying on party mergers.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) expressed readiness to collaborate with like-minded groups to restore Nigeria’s progress, with National Chairman Sly Ezeokenwa affirming the party’s commitment to unity and national development.

Despite these discussions, APC remains confident, with Ibrahim describing opposition leaders as “strange bedfellows” unlikely to pose a serious challenge. Critics within the opposition argue that Atiku and Obi’s past failures to collaborate effectively have contributed to Nigeria’s current challenges and call for ego management and sincere efforts if they hope to succeed.