The trio of Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Peter Obi, are engaged in preliminary discussions regarding a potential merger with the aim of establishing a political party. This proposed alliance is envisioned as a substantial challenge to the reigning All Progressives Congress (APC).
Initial reports suggest that this collaborative effort commenced with a meeting between Atiku, the previous presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Kwankwaso, who represented the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the last presidential election.
With the initial phase of dialogues yielding favorable outcomes, another round of talks commenced, this time involving Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate and leader of the OBIdient Movement. This development transpired following invitations extended by the two primary stakeholders, Atiku and Kwankwaso.
While these discussions are still in their early stages, they are rooted in two key principles. Confidential insiders reveal that the trio of leaders has chosen a cautious approach, awaiting the verdict of election petitions. The court decision will be pivotal in shaping the subsequent course of action if the judgment goes unfavorably.
Informed sources divulge that the leaders hold optimism for a “just and fair” ruling from the presidential election tribunal. This optimistic outlook stems from their belief that the current administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, lacks the credibility to withstand thorough electoral scrutiny, potentially leading to a rerun.
The leaders are banking on the tribunal potentially ordering a re-election or a rerun, an outcome that would pave the way for a collaborative coalition in the electoral arena. This coalition would mount a formidable challenge against both Tinubu and the APC.
However, in the event that the tribunal’s ruling does not align with their aspirations, the leaders are reportedly mulling over the establishment of an entirely new political party ahead of the 2027 general elections. This strategic maneuver is devised with the ultimate goal of unseating the incumbent APC from its current position of power.
A source said, “The meeting started with Kwankwaso and Atiku, and they have agreed to bring Peter Obi in to set up a formidable opposition after the court cases. Although they have not gotten to the point of discussing who will lead the opposition, they are leaving it out for now until after the court cases.
“After the court cases, they will plan and come together for re-election or stand together ahead to fight the 2027 election battle. They are considering a formidable party comprising the PDP, Labour, and NNPP.”
