Atiku Pushes for Coalition Despite PDP Governors’ Rejection

Atiku revealed that leaders from APC, Labour Party, and other parties are collaborating on what he called “a new pathway”

Atiku Pushes for Coalition Despite PDP Governors’ Rejection

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his commitment to forming a broad political coalition ahead of the 2027 elections, dismissing opposition from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors who rejected any merger with other parties. In a post on his X handle, Atiku declared, “The Coalition Train has left the station and will make multiple stops to unite Nigerians of all backgrounds.”

Atiku’s remarks suggest a potential rift with the PDP, hinting at his readiness to leave the party to pursue his presidential ambitions. “We will ride any vehicle that ensures good governance for our children and grandchildren,” he stated, signaling openness to alternative political platforms.

The PDP’s internal struggles were highlighted by Dan Orbih, the National Vice Chairman (Southsouth), who attributed the party’s ongoing crisis to individuals repeatedly contesting presidential elections in violation of the party’s constitution. While Orbih did not name Atiku, the former vice president has run for president twice under the PDP and once under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

Following a meeting in Ibadan, PDP governors issued a communiqué rejecting coalitions, claiming their decision followed consultations with party organs. However, Atiku, meeting with a PDP delegation from Nasarawa State led by Alhaji Jibirin Sabo Keana and National Opinion Leaders headed by Yusuf Sheriff Banki, insisted the coalition was unstoppable. “I briefed them on the pan-Nigerian coalition I am building with leaders across political divides,” he said, describing the initiative as a “Nigerian Movement” to rebuild the country.

Atiku revealed that leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), and other parties are collaborating on what he called “Sabuwar tafiya” (Hausa for “a new pathway”). He expressed confidence in soon announcing the coalition and urged Nigerians to join, warning against being swayed by “minor financial offers” that could jeopardize their future.

Orbih, speaking at the opening of a new PDP secretariat he donated in Benin, dismissed claims that Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike is the cause of the party’s woes. Instead, he pointed to those with “entrenched interests” in perpetual presidential bids as the real issue. He called on Acting National Chairman Ambassador Iliya Damagun to hold congresses to elect new leaders to restore the PDP’s strength.

Meanwhile, former PDP governorship candidate in Lagos, Segun Adewale, rejected claims by Chief Olabode George that Atiku’s candidacy in 2027 would destroy the party. Adewale argued that the PDP’s challenges stem from anti-party activities and selfish leaders, not Atiku’s ambitions.

Atiku remains optimistic about the coalition’s prospects, urging Nigerians to unite for a new political path. “We are planning and working to convert as many Nigerians as possible to this new pathway,” he said. Read More