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With more than two years to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, political permutations in the opposition camp have kicked off in earnest.
Naija News understands that four prominent political figures, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, ex-Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and former President, Goodluck Jonathan, are emerging as central players in the contest for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) tickets.
According to Vanguard, the battle is not just about who will face President Bola Tinubu at the polls, but also about control of party structures, coalition politics, and the strategic positioning of old rivals and new contenders.
Atiku’s Quiet Grip On ADC
Although Atiku has not formally declared his intention to run, reports suggest his loyalists currently occupy key positions in the ADC’s National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and state chapters.
Political analysts see this as a strategic move to tilt the party’s presidential ticket in his favour. For now, Atiku has remained silent on his ambitions, but his behind-the-scenes manoeuvres have fuelled speculation about another presidential run.
Obi’s Struggles In ADC Coalition
Peter Obi, who joined the ADC coalition after running under the Labour Party in 2023, entered with high expectations, positioning himself as a candidate capable of changing the country’s fortunes within four years.
However, his journey has been fraught with challenges. In August, a leaked memo from the Obidient Movement alleged that its members were being sidelined in coalition decision-making.
“Several of our designated representatives and members are reportedly being excluded from crucial meetings where major decisions affecting the coalition are made. This creates an impression of marginalisation and undermines trust,” the memo read.
While Obi retains strong online support, his chances of clinching the ADC ticket remain uncertain, given Atiku’s alleged control over party machinery.
Amaechi’s Open Declaration
Unlike Atiku, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi has openly declared his interest in the ADC ticket. Speaking recently on 𝕏 Space, Amaechi appealed to the party to nominate him, citing his insider knowledge of the APC and President Tinubu.
“I know Tinubu very well. I know his strengths. I know his weaknesses. And I know that if allowed to fly the flag of ADC, I will defeat Tinubu for sure,” he said.
But in a party already influenced by Atiku and contested by Obi, Amaechi’s path will require building stronger alliances within the ADC.
PDP Eyes Obi’s Return, Considers Jonathan
While Obi battles for relevance in the ADC, the PDP has been making overtures to lure him back. Party leaders, including PDP Governors Forum chairman Bala Mohammed, believe his return could boost the party’s chances and unify the opposition.
However, not all PDP members support the idea. PDP chieftain Umar Sani dismissed Obi’s four-year single-term promise as mere “political talk,” adding that the North would prefer Jonathan over Obi.
Jonathan’s name continues to surface in election cycles, with figures like former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido arguing that the ex-president has “unfinished business” in Aso Rock. Under the constitution, Jonathan remains eligible to serve one more four-year term.
ADC Vs PDP: Battle For Opposition Dominance
Beneath the individual ambitions is a subtle rivalry between the PDP and ADC, both competing for the same pool of opposition votes.
If the PDP pulls Obi back, it could weaken the ADC’s coalition strength. Conversely, if the ADC fields Atiku or Obi, it could threaten the PDP’s dominance as the main opposition party.
With both parties aware that securing the right candidate is critical to challenging the APC, the coming months are expected to shape alliances, defections, and the overall direction of Nigeria’s opposition politics.
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