Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso Rift Boost Tinubu
Fresh cracks have emerged within Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the 2027 election as concerns grow that divisions among Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso could once again benefit President Bola Tinubu.
The tension followed the decision by Obi and Kwankwaso to leave the ADC coalition for the NDC, only weeks after opposition leaders gathered in Ibadan promising unity against the APC.
The development has revived memories of the 2023 presidential election when the opposition entered the race divided.
Tinubu won with about 8.79 million votes, while Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso collectively secured far more votes separately.
Many opposition supporters believe a united ticket could have changed the outcome, but rivalry, mistrust and regional interests once again appear to be weakening coalition efforts.
The crisis worsened after allies of Obi accused Atiku of trying to dominate the ADC coalition structure. Dino Melaye added to the tension with remarks mocking Obi’s ability to handle difficult political battles.
The APC has already seized on the divisions, with presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga accusing Obi of constantly moving between parties whenever internal competition becomes uncomfortable.
Despite the disagreements, opposition figures insist public frustration over hardship, insecurity and rising living costs still gives them a chance against the ruling party.
However, many Nigerians remain unconvinced as political discussions continue to focus more on defections and power struggles than clear solutions to the country’s problems.
For now, Tinubu appears to hold the advantage as the opposition struggles to stay united.
