The camp of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that the growing strength of Nigeria’s emerging opposition coalition has sparked anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its allies, including former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Vanguard on Sunday in Abuja, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, said the coalition’s rapid momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections is positioning it as a serious contender to unseat the current administration.
“They’re scared because they know the coalition represents a formidable platform that could remove this administration,” Ibe stated. “Even if some leaders defect to their political party, the reality is that Nigerians are defecting to the coalition. It embodies their aspiration, a platform to end this failed government.”
Mounting Criticism of APC’s Governance
Ibe did not hold back in his criticism of the APC-led government, particularly over its handling of national security and the economy. He pointed to worsening insecurity in states like Benue and Plateau and the escalating cost of living, saying the administration has failed in its primary duty to protect and provide for the people.
“The value of human life in our country has hit an all-time low, especially under this administration,” Ibe said. “When they claim things are improving, one has to ask: for whom? Certainly not for the common man.”
He added that most Nigerians now struggle to afford basic necessities, from food to education, amid what he described as a deepening economic crisis.
Wike, Omokri Come Under Fire
Reacting to Wike’s recent comments branding the coalition “dead on arrival,” Ibe dismissed the remarks as rooted in personal bias and questioned the former governor’s credibility.
“Such utterances are likely driven by 40-year-old whiskey, or whatever he’s been drinking for decades. They’re in government; they should focus on governance instead of ranting,” he said.
Ibe also took aim at political commentator and former presidential aide Reno Omokri, accusing him of dishonesty. He referenced a false claim by Omokri that he recommended Peter Obi as Atiku’s running mate in 2019—a statement Atiku has since publicly denied.
Coalition Poised for Major Unveiling
Despite criticism, Ibe expressed confidence in the coalition’s strength and appeal, revealing that preparations are underway to formally unveil the platform.
“Once everything is finalised and the dotted lines are signed, Nigerians will eagerly board this train. That will mark their defection—far more overwhelming than what’s happening with the APC,” he said.
Another top coalition figure, who spoke on condition of anonymity, echoed Ibe’s sentiments and dismissed Wike’s criticisms as irrelevant.
“Wike is not part of the coalition, so how would he know it’s ‘dead on arrival’? Nigerians shouldn’t take him seriously. He’s like social media—full of fake news,” the source said.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 elections, the growing influence of the opposition coalition is already triggering political realignments. Observers believe the group, made up of prominent figures including Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, could significantly reshape the nation’s political landscape.
The coalition is also reportedly considering adopting the name “All Democratic Alliance” as it finalizes its structure and strategy.
Whether this momentum will translate into electoral success remains to be seen—but for now, the opposition is making waves that the ruling party can no longer ignore.
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