Just In: Atiku, Babachir Lawal, El-Rufai, Others Form Coalition Against Tinubu’s Re-Election
In order to run against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a number of well-known figures from the current All Progressives Congress (APC) have formally formed a coalition.
According to reports, several opposition members made a strong appearance at the news conference on Thursday, including Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, who was represented by Yunusa Tanko.
Among the other notable figures present were former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties Peter Ahmeh, and Convenor of the Alternative Segun Showunmi.
The immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Adamu, former Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State and Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State were among the prominent individuals who were unable to attend but who issued apologies. Their support for the coalition’s cause was recognized even if they were not there.
Atiku verified this by reading the transcript of a press conference held in Abuja on Thursday that was attended by a variety of political figures and leaders from throughout the nation.
“Yes, this is the birth of the coalition of opposition ahead of 2027,” Atiku stated when asked if the purpose of the meeting was to establish a coalition to overthrow Tinubu in 2007.
Atiku and his allies had earlier urged Nigerians, particularly those in the National Assembly, to oppose President Bola Tinubu’s unconstitutional proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State during their remarks at the news conference.
“On March 18, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, declared a State of Emergency in Rivers State and unlawfully suspended the democratically elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly. These actions are dangerous and unconstitutional,” Atiku stated.
In addition to being illegal, this action blatantly undermines democracy by imposing dictatorial federal control over a state administration that has been duly elected.
“We vehemently denounce this situation and urge all Nigerians with a good conscience to oppose this blatant attack on our nation’s constitution and democratic institutions.
The lengthy, pernicious political unrest in Rivers State, which culminated in the most recent Supreme Court decision, is likely what prompted Mr. President to issue his unlawful and unconstitutional declaration.
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Naturally, we anticipated that all disputing parties would adhere to established protocols and, acting in good faith, swiftly carry out the ruling of the nation’s top court.
We observe that Governor Fubara had shown goodwill and seemed inclined to implement the Supreme Court’s decision, notwithstanding the offensive remarks and aggressive demeanor of his opponents.
But instead of rising above the conflict, the president gave in to personal favoritism and violated the oath he took before God and humanity to “do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favor, affection, or ill-will.”
“President Tinubu’s broadcast to the nation on March 18, 2025, demonstrated his bias and fell well short of the standard of conduct expected from his esteemed office, even if he had previously conveniently concealed his true intentions.”
