2027: Atiku, Peter Obi, El-Rufai Reportedly Begin Talks Over New Political Party

Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) candidate, are reportedly in discussions about forming a new political party ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to sources, the two leaders recently met to deliberate on the possibility of adopting a fresh political platform.

They are scheduled to meet again in Yola, Adamawa State, on Saturday, November 30, where Obi will serve as the keynote speaker during a ceremony marking Atiku’s 78th birthday.

The event, taking place at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) owned by Atiku, is reportedly intended to demonstrate their continued camaraderie.

According to The Sun, The Africa Report disclosed that a spokesperson for the duo acknowledged that a potential merger is being considered but declined to share specific details.

Since their defeat to President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023, Atiku and Obi have explored avenues for collaboration. The discussions are seen as a response to internal challenges within their respective parties.

The PDP has faced a prolonged crisis, with its current national chairman, Umar Damagum, being an ally of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Wike has been a vocal critic of Atiku’s presidential bid and supported Tinubu in the last election.

Similarly, the Labour Party has struggled with internal discord, as Obi’s relationship with the party’s chairman, Julius Abure, has soured.

The talks between Atiku and Obi are reportedly advancing, with election preparations set to commence in just over a year. Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai is also said to be involved in these discussions, signaling the possibility of a significant political realignment.