ABUJA, Nigeria — In a significant political move ahead of the 2027 general elections, a coalition of high-profile political figures—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi—held a closed-door strategy meeting with Northern leaders on Sunday at the Abuja Continental Hotel. The meeting, convened by the National Political Consultative Group (North), focused on forging a united front to challenge President Bola Tinubu at the polls.
Background & Coalition Formation
This gathering follows the March 20, 2025, declaration in Abuja, where Atiku, Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai announced the creation of an opposition coalition, aimed at consolidating forces across party lines to unseat the incumbent.
The prospect of unity among major opposition blocs has since stirred debate nationwide.
Key Attendees
- Atiku Abubakar – Former Vice President
- Peter Obi – 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate
- Rotimi Amaechi – Former Governor, Rivers State
- Babachir Lawal – Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation
- Adolphus Wabara – Chairman, PDP Board of Trustees
- Abubakar Malami (SAN) – Former Attorney General of the Federation
- Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed – Obi’s 2023 running mate
- Mustapha Lamido – Son of ex-Gov. Sule Lamido
- Delegates from the 19 northern states
Tense Moment: Jigawa State Delegates Revolt
Tensions flared mid-meeting when a delegation from Jigawa State protested their representation, rejecting a speaker named by Babachir Lawal. In a dramatic confrontation:
- Delegates stormed the stage, halting proceedings
- Security forces, including the Nigerian Police, DSS, and private guards, shielded key figures like Atiku and Amaechi
- Calm was restored after Mustapha Lamido was agreed upon to speak for the state
Core Issues Discussed
- Security
- National unity
- Leadership competence
- The viability of a united opposition to present a credible alternative in 2027
What This Means
The meeting marks a critical step in opposition consolidation, though internal tensions—like the Jigawa disruption—highlight the challenges ahead.
The coalition’s next move, particularly whether they can present a joint presidential ticket, remains a focal point in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
