As political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has downplayed the emergence of a new opposition coalition, describing it as ineffective and doomed to fail.
The coalition, comprising key figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition parties, held a high-profile meeting in Abuja on Tuesday to strategize on dislodging President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Insiders revealed that the group has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political platform.
In a communiqué signed by former Senate President David Mark, the coalition criticized the APC-led government, calling it a “disaster” and urging Nigerians to unite behind their movement to rescue the country. Attendees included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Governors Sule Lamido, Aminu Tambuwal, Liyel Imoke, and several other PDP leaders.
Reacting to the development, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim dismissed the coalition’s efforts, stating that its members had previously failed to unseat the ruling party and would do so again in 2027. “This coalition is composed of defeated individuals — politically and ideologically. It’s dead on arrival,” he said.
Ibrahim also pointed to the improved security and power conditions under the APC administration, suggesting that the ability of opposition leaders to meet freely was evidence of government progress. He maintained that the APC remains confident in President Tinubu’s reelection prospects.
Despite internal rifts within major opposition parties like the PDP, Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), the coalition has pressed forward with its plan to rally behind the ADC. According to sources, some PDP members intend to work for the ADC candidate while maintaining their membership in the PDP.
The coalition’s agenda includes promoting national unity, economic recovery, and a crackdown on institutional corruption. Senator Abba Moro and PDP chieftain Segun Sowunmi defended the Abuja meeting, framing it as a necessary step toward a stronger opposition front.
Media aide to former Minister Rauf Aregbesola, Sola Fasure, confirmed his principal’s involvement and said Aregbesola is coordinating efforts in the South West. He emphasized that the coalition shares a common vision, including Labour Party’s Peter Obi’s call for a single-term presidency.
Meanwhile, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, voiced support for the coalition’s direction but declined to comment on PDP-specific matters. He stressed that the opposition’s strength will ultimately be judged by the electorate.
The coalition is expected to formally unveil the ADC as its platform in the coming days, signaling a new phase in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
