Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside key opposition figures including Kayode Fayemi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai, on Thursday have announced the formation of a coalition set to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The coalition aimed to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027 presidential election.
The announcement came during a press conference convened at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre, Abuja, where concerns were raised over President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State.
Atiku Abubakar, speaking on behalf of the coalition, asserted that the move was a necessary step towards safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic principles.
“We are here to affirm our commitment to upholding democracy and to challenge any unconstitutional actions that threaten our nation’s stability,” Atiku declared, emphasizing the coalition’s stance against what they described as an infringement on democratic norms.
The coalition, which includes prominent figures such as former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, Labour Party’s Yunusa Tanko representing Peter Obi, and Peter Ahmeh of the Coalition of United Political Parties, aims to consolidate opposition efforts and present a unified front against the APC.
Atiku confirmed that the coalition intends to emerge as a formidable opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections, marking a significant political realignment.
He highlighted the need for unity among opposition leaders to effectively challenge the ruling party’s dominance.
“We believe in the power of unity. This coalition represents a convergence of ideas and aspirations aimed at offering Nigerians a credible alternative,” Atiku asserted.
The press conference concluded with strong condemnations of the State of Emergency in Rivers State, labeling it as unconstitutional and an attempt to suppress democratic dissent.
The coalition vowed to mobilize support across the country to resist what they termed as authoritarian tendencies within the current administration.
In attendance were notable figures including former governors Kayode Fayemi and Rotimi Amaechi, both of whom expressed their commitment to the coalition’s objectives.
Abdullahi Adamu, immediate past National Chairman of the APC, also joined the ranks of those voicing concern over recent governmental actions.
