Talks of forming a new coalition or launching a fresh political party have gained momentum, with key opposition figures reportedly exploring alliances to challenge the APC’s dominance.
But, Daily Independent reports that as Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, cracks within the opposition are becoming increasingly evident.
While the ruling APC consolidates its position under President Bola Tinubu, the report revealed that the opposition seems to be losing steam as its leaders struggle to find common ground on strategy, leadership, and direction.
According to the report, the once-anticipated unity among opposition stalwarts, such as Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and other influential figures, now appears to be a distant dream.
Efforts to build a formidable coalition to challenge Tinubu’s administration have been hampered by conflicting ambitions, ideological differences, and a lack of trust among key players.
Atiku Abubakar, a veteran in Nigerian politics, has maintained his position as a leading opposition voice. However, his insistence on being the flagbearer in any potential coalition has created friction with younger leaders, particularly Peter Obi, who emerged as a major contender in the 2023 elections.
Obi’s Labour Party is keen to capitalize on the momentum it gained, positioning itself as a fresh alternative to the traditional political establishment.
Meanwhile, rumours of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai joining opposition ranks have further complicated dynamics. El-Rufai, known for his pragmatic but divisive style, is viewed by some as a potential game-changer, while others see his involvement as a destabilizing factor due to his controversial tenure in office.
Despite the opposition’s struggles, Tinubu’s administration has managed to gain early support from several sectors.
Policies aimed at economic stabilization, including subsidy removal and infrastructure development, have started to show positive results, bolstering Tinubu’s reputation as a reformer.
While challenges such as inflation and insecurity remain, many Nigerians are beginning to view his leadership as a steady hand in turbulent times.
Tinubu’s strategy of inclusive governance, combined with targeted initiatives to address youth unemployment and economic diversification, is said to have resonated with a significant portion of the electorate.
Meanwhile, w. While the PDP remains the largest opposition party, internal conflicts and defections have weakened its structure.
The Labour Party, despite its recent successes, faces questions about its capacity to sustain momentum and expand its reach beyond urban youth and middle-class voters.
Moreover, the lack of a coherent message or clear alternative vision for Nigeria’s future has left many voters disillusioned with the opposition.
Also, the growing perception that Tinubu is delivering, albeit slowly, is diminishing the urgency for change that drove voter enthusiasm in 2023.N..>>Don’t Miss Out! CLICK HERE TO KEEP READING>>>>>
With less than three years to the next election, time is running out for the opposition to regroup and redefine its strategy. Calls for a grand coalition persist, but achieving this unity will require significant compromises, including resolving leadership disputes and crafting a shared policy platform.
For now, early signs indicate that Tinubu’s APC remains the party to beat in 2027. Unless the opposition can overcome its internal divisions and present a compelling case for change, the road to unseating the incumbent may prove to be an insurmountable challenge.