Coalition: Atiku Replies PDP Governors

Coalition

OpenLife Nigeria reports that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has replied Peoples Democratic Party, PDP governors who rose from a meeting in Ibadan and declared non alignment of the party with any coalition ahead the 2027 presidential contest.

On March 20, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, announced the formation of a Coalition of Opposition Political Parties to oust President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

The Adamawa State born politician confirmed this while responding to a question on behalf of the opposition leaders at a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

He said, “Yes, this is the birth of the coalition of opposition ahead of 2027.”

However, on April 24, PDP governors unanimously resolved not to join any coalition or merger as the 2027 elections approach.

The Governors made this known at its Forum meeting, which held in Ibadan, Oyo State and attended by key governors, including Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Peter Mbah of Enugu, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.

Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom were represented by their deputies.

In a communiqué read by the Governor of Bauchi State and the forum’s Chairman, Bala Mohammed, the forum noted the “nationwide speculations about possible mergers of parties, groups, and/or associations” and resolved that “the Forum will not join any coalition or merger.”

Reacting during a meeting on April 15, Atiku clarified the coalition, stating that it is unstoppable.

Atiku said:

Yesterday, I met with a delegation of two groups, during which I briefed them about the status of the pan-Nigerian coalition that I am building in conjunction with other leaders and stakeholders across political divides and regions.

I informed them that the Nigerian Movement is being powered by Nigerians desirous of reclaiming and rebuilding their country from across the nooks and crannies of our country.

Indeed, the Coalition Train has left the station and would have multiple stops to bring on board Nigerians of all shades.

First was the meeting with a delegation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Nasarawa State, led by Alhaji Jibirin Sabo Keana.

The second was a delegation of National Opinion leaders, led by Hon. Yusuf Sheriff Banki. -AA