The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed the feasibility of a Peter Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket in the 2027 elections, with Deputy National Financial Secretary Fabiyi Oladimeji asserting that only a union between Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar can deliver the electoral numbers needed to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Oladimeji emphasized that the 2023 general election results clearly show the limitations of an Obi-Kwankwaso alliance, stating that their combined voting strength would fall short of what is required to unseat the APC. He pointed out that the total votes secured by Obi, Kwankwaso, and Atiku in 2023 amounted to approximately 14 to 15 million, while the APC presidential candidate received around eight million votes, highlighting the potential power of a unified front.
Oladimeji argued that a merger between Atiku and Obi would consolidate the opposition’s strength and present a formidable challenge to the APC. He stressed that the ADC’s position is not rooted in personal ambition but in a collective responsibility to rescue Nigeria from its current political and economic crises. “Even Kwankwaso and Obi cannot give us the number, I am sorry to say this. The best number is Atiku and Obi,” he said, underscoring the strategic importance of uniting key opposition figures. He noted that Atiku has publicly committed to supporting whoever emerges as the opposition’s presidential candidate, and he expects the same from Obi and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, who has also expressed willingness to back a united front.
The ADC official called on all opposition leaders to put aside differences and prioritize national interest over individual aspirations. He warned that without a united opposition, the APC would continue to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape. “This is not about personal ambition; it is about rescuing the country,” Oladimeji reiterated, urging Obi to make a similar public commitment to support a coalition effort. The ADC’s stance reflects a growing sentiment among opposition parties that electoral success in 2027 will depend on strategic alliances and broad-based coalitions rather than fragmented campaigns.
As the 2027 elections approach, political observers are closely watching how opposition parties will align. The ADC’s position adds momentum to ongoing discussions about a potential grand alliance among major opposition forces. With the APC still holding significant influence across many states, the ADC believes that only a unified opposition can mobilize the necessary voter turnout to achieve a meaningful change in Nigeria’s political direction. The coming months will likely see increased negotiations and public declarations from key opposition figures as they work toward a common goal.
Leave a Comment