Atiku disclosed that a group known as the Coalition of Youth Representatives paid him a courtesy visit
2027: Atiku Hints at Youth-Backed Coalition, Faces Mixed Reactions Over Opposition Bid
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has revealed that his push to form a united opposition front against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections has received support from a coalition of young Nigerians.
Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, disclosed that a group known as the Coalition of Youth Representatives paid him a courtesy visit on Monday, June 16, 2025. The group, led by AbdulAziz Akinsanya, presented him with a strategic document on enhancing youth participation in the emerging coalition movement.
“Our efforts at forging a robust opposition coalition in response to the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians to reclaim and rebuild their country today got the backing of the Coalition of Youth Representatives,” Atiku wrote via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, @atiku.
He continued: “The youth group, a multi-party alliance of young Nigerians, on a courtesy visit led by AbdulAziz Akinsanya, presented a document to me on how the participation of young Nigerians could be maximised in the emerging Coalition. I was inspired by the depth of their proposition and patriotism.”
While Atiku’s announcement drew praise from some supporters, it also triggered a wave of criticism from Nigerians online — many of whom questioned his continued political ambition and urged him to step aside for a younger candidate.
User @BolanleA4 commented: “Any coalition with you as the leader is DOA… You are too old and without a base… Retire!”
Another user, @Airdropglobal5, wrote: “Oga, you’ve been running since 1992 and never won. Don’t you think Nigerians are telling you something? Be a statesman — throw your influence behind Peter Obi.”
Some reactions expressed skepticism about the youth coalition itself.
@mrUmanu_Elijah said: “80% of these so-called youth representatives are Abuja voters. They don’t even know their local ward, not to talk of their polling unit.”
Others were more pointed in their demands, calling for Atiku to step down completely.
@cryptodailyshow wrote: “History matters. Step down for Peter Obi and become a hero of the biggest movement in Africa.”
Despite the criticism, Atiku has yet to formally declare his intention to run in 2027. However, his ongoing engagements with youth groups and opposition leaders continue to fuel speculation about another potential bid. Read More
