It was supposed to be a rallying cry. A chance for opposition forces to unite ahead of 2027. But instead of applause, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition proposal hit a wall — and it hit hard.
PDP chieftains weren’t impressed. Some called it premature. Others whispered about ulterior motives. Within days, headlines declared the plan “dead on arrival.” And then came Atiku’s response. “This Is Bigger Than Any Party”
Speaking from his residence in Abuja, Atiku didn’t mince words. “We cannot win by staying divided. And we cannot pretend that one party alone can challenge the APC machinery. Unity isn’t weakness. It’s strategy.”
But he also took a subtle jab at his critics. “There are people within PDP who are afraid. Not of the APC — but of losing their influence within the party. They’d rather lead a losing side than share power in a winning coalition.”
Atiku’s proposal wasn’t just political theory. It was a direct reaction to the fragmentation of Nigeria’s opposition. In 2023, Labour Party, PDP, and other groups split the anti-APC vote. The result? Victory for the ruling party, even with a fractured mandate. He’s trying to prevent that from happening again.
What Now?
For now, the coalition idea is on ice. But Atiku insists the door remains open. “Time will show who’s interested in Nigeria’s future — and who’s just protecting their seat at the table,” he said. And knowing Atiku, he won’t let the idea die quietly.
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