Tension In Opposition Camp: Atiku’s 2027 Bid Threatens To Push Obi, El-Rufai Out Of Coalition

There are growing concerns that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, may exit the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over Atiku Abubakar’s ambition to run for president in 2027.

Sources within the coalition suggest that many of its early backers, including El-Rufai, are becoming disillusioned due to Atiku’s insistence on clinching the party’s presidential ticket—an ambition they fear could hinder the party’s chances in the next general election.

El-Rufai, a strong advocate for power rotation to the South, is said to be firmly opposed to another northern presidency before 2031. Although both Peter Obi and former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, have shown interest in the 2027 race, it remains unclear which southern contender El-Rufai supports.

A member of the ADC’s interim leadership, speaking anonymously to BusinessDay in Abuja, expressed frustration over Atiku’s presidential bid, warning it could derail the coalition’s momentum.

While noting that the party will not block any aspirant, the official said, “The former vice president’s ambition could weaken the party unless he reconsiders his position.”

He added, “Many Nigerians are hopeful that this coalition will offer a real alternative in 2027. But if Atiku insists on contesting, we risk losing that opportunity. El-Rufai still stands by his position from 2023 and is committed to supporting a southern candidate.