Tinubu’s Camp Confident of 2027 Victory Despite Atiku, Obi Alliance

The Presidency has dismissed Nigeria’s newly formed opposition coalition, describing its leaders as “retired politicians” who pose no threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027.

The reaction came after major opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi formally adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their coalition platform on Wednesday. The group appointed former Senate President David Mark as interim chairman.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanugu dismissed the coalition’s significance, stating, “These are yesterday’s men who refuse to accept their retirement. Nigerians have moved on.” He emphasized the administration’s focus on economic reforms rather than what he called opposition distractions.

The APC expressed similar confidence, with party spokesman Bala Ibrahim stating, “We will defeat them comfortably in 2027 as we’ve done before.” Ibrahim questioned the coalition’s credibility, noting many of its leaders had previously held power without solving Nigeria’s challenges.

The Presidency’s dismissal comes amid growing opposition unity against Tinubu’s economic policies, which have caused widespread hardship. However, administration officials maintain their reforms will yield visible results before the next election.

ADC leaders framed their coalition as necessary to prevent what they called Nigeria’s slide into one-party rule, citing economic struggles and insecurity. But the Presidency’s swift dismissal suggests it views the opposition alliance as fractured and unconvincing to voters.