Uncertainty surrounds the potential merger between Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. Kwankwaso, the presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), recently declared his intention to win the 2027 presidential election, casting doubt on the merger talks.
Kwankwaso’s statement, made during the inauguration of the NNPP secretariat in Katsina State, emphasized his party’s readiness to take over the presidency and other positions. He also claimed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is “already dead” and has “gone out of the line.”
Prior to Kwankwaso’s statement, the PDP had announced that key opposition leaders were exploring a merger to challenge the APC. However, Kwankwaso’s declaration has raised questions about the feasibility of the merger.
Peter Obi, in an interview, stated that he is not desperate to become Nigeria’s President and would only agree to work with others if he sees people who can do the work better. He emphasized that any collaboration must be focused on production and not just state capture or winning elections.
A chieftain of the PDP, Barr. Ray Nnaji, expressed skepticism about the possibility of Kwankwaso agreeing to work with Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, citing Kwankwaso’s friendship with President Tinubu. Nnaji suggested that an alliance among the trio could only be possible if Kwankwaso is given the opportunity to be the presidential candidate.
The situation remains uncertain, with no definitive position taken on the merger talks. However, the need for combined efforts to challenge the APC and ensure good governance remains a pressing concern.
