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Opposition leaders plan mega party for 2027, consider Peter Obi as key figure
DDM News

A coalition of political leaders from northern Nigeria and other stakeholders across the country has reportedly decided to abandon the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a viable opposition platform for the 2027 general election, with Peter Obi emerging as a central figure in their plans.
Investigations by the Diaspora digital media (DDM) reveal that discussions over the past three months have led to the conclusion that the PDP is no longer capable of effectively challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
A high-level committee was formed in December 2024 to finalize the structure of a new mega party, with a deadline set for late February to unveil its framework.
Sources indicate that opposition leaders are exploring the possibility of using existing smaller parties, such as the ADC as the foundation for this broad-based coalition.
“The PDP is not being considered as a strong opposition force because many of its governors are perceived to be secretly supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid,” a source familiar with the discussions stated.
Presidential candidate options
While the coalition is progressing, there is still no consensus on who will lead the opposition into the 2027 elections.
However, several names are being discussed as potential candidates, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Among these contenders, Peter Obi is reportedly gaining significant traction.
Many coalition members believe that any serious challenge against the APC must include Obi, given his strong performance in the 2023 elections and his appeal to a broad segment of voters, particularly in the South and among younger Nigerians.
According to a source, “While Atiku is still seen as a key opposition figure, many within the coalition recognize that Peter Obi’s involvement is crucial to the success of this alliance.”
The role of the League of Northern Democrats
A newly formed political group, the League of Northern Democrats (LND), led by former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, is playing a significant role in coordinating the merger of various opposition forces.
The group is working to unify northern and southern leaders under a single political platform to challenge the APC’s dominance.
The North appears to have settled on a candidate they believe can mount a formidable opposition to the ruling party.
However, some stakeholders argue that for the coalition to succeed, it must secure the participation of a strong southern candidate like Peter Obi.
One source explained, “The opposition leaders are weighing multiple options, but many believe that the alliance will not gain momentum without Obi’s direct involvement.”
Obi’s growing influence
As discussions continue, Peter Obi’s popularity within the coalition is rising, particularly among those who feel that his credibility and political appeal could unify opposition forces.
His supporters argue that his performance in the 2023 election demonstrated his ability to mobilize votes across regions, making him a critical asset in the 2027 race.
However, concerns remain over Atiku Abubakar’s age, as he will be 81 by the time of the election.
While some of his allies point to global examples of older politicians, such as Donald Trump, others within the coalition believe that a younger, more dynamic candidate like Obi would be a better option.
Strategic mobilization for 2027
The recently concluded Democracy Summit in Abuja is said to have been part of the opposition’s broader mobilization efforts.
With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) expected to release the 2027 election timetable in May, political leaders are accelerating discussions to finalize their strategy.
While the formation of the new mega party remains fluid, the likelihood of a structured opposition front is increasing.
Many stakeholders believe that without Peter Obi’s active participation, the coalition may struggle to gain widespread support.
With over two years until the next general election, the opposition’s plans are still evolving.
However, political analysts predict that Obi’s role will be instrumental in shaping the coalition’s chances of success against the APC in 2027.
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