As Nigerians grapple with rising inflation and worsening living conditions, political momentum is already building ahead of the 2027 general elections. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023, now faces growing resistance from a broad coalition of political heavyweights determined to block his bid for a second term.
Amid widespread public dissatisfaction and criticism of his administration’s policies—deemed by many as economically insensitive and politically divisive—a united front of opposition leaders is emerging with one clear goal: to unseat Tinubu in 2027.
Mounting Criticism and Opposition
Critics accuse President Tinubu of pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state, while failing to deliver on key promises, particularly in tackling inflation, poverty, and insecurity. The government’s policies, they argue, have deepened the country’s economic woes and widened public discontent.
Peter Obi: The Return Bid
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has declared his intention to run again in 2027. A consistent voice for reform, Obi has signaled openness to strategic alliances. In March, he joined forces with other prominent figures—including Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai—to form a united coalition aimed at challenging Tinubu’s reelection.
Rumors persist that Obi may accept a vice-presidential slot under Atiku in a one-term power-sharing arrangement, though neither side has officially confirmed such a deal.
Atiku Abubakar: Veteran Politician Eyes Another Shot
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 PDP presidential flagbearer, remains active on the political scene. Like Obi, Atiku has embraced the idea of a grand coalition and has reportedly proposed a one-term presidency with Obi as his running mate—a move seen as a strategic attempt to consolidate opposition votes.
The announcement of the coalition in March sparked intense national debate about its viability and cohesion.
Seyi Makinde: A Rising Contender
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has hinted at presidential ambitions, stating in April that he possesses the competence to lead Nigeria. However, he emphasized that any decision to contest would reflect the will of the people and his party.
Makinde’s rising influence within the PDP has led to growing support for a possible 2027 candidacy, with posters bearing the slogan “To Move Nigeria Forward 2027” already surfacing in parts of Kano State.
Nasir El-Rufai: Vocal Critic Turned Strategist
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has emerged as one of Tinubu’s fiercest critics. In a May statement, he dismissed the president’s reelection prospects, saying:
Anybody that thinks it is possible for President Bola Tinubu to get re-elected is living in another country, not Nigeria.
El-Rufai is actively involved in coalition discussions and has emphasized the need for a unified opposition to rescue Nigeria from what he describes as worsening governance.
Babachir Lawal: Strategist Behind the Scenes
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has also joined the anti-Tinubu camp. Known for his strategic insight, Lawal is reportedly playing a significant role in shaping the coalition’s 2027 game plan.
Amaechi and Imoke: Architects of a New Platform
Two former governors—Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) and Liyel Imoke (Cross River)—have taken up critical roles within the emerging opposition alliance. Amaechi leads efforts focused on registering a new political platform, while Imoke explores partnerships with existing parties to strengthen the coalition’s structure.
Ralph Nwosu: The Voice from the ADC
Ralph Okey Nwosu, National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has been an outspoken critic of the Tinubu administration. In a recent interview, he described Nigeria as being united by shared hardship, not hope.
From Lagos to Port Harcourt, Kano, Uyo, and Sokoto, Nigerians are united by hunger and insecurity. The APC has failed woefully. They are in denial, but they’ll either sweep themselves out with their broom, or the citizens will.
With growing public frustration and a swelling chorus of opposition voices, the road to 2027 is shaping up to be one of the most contentious and closely watched elections in Nigeria’s history. Whether President Tinubu can weather the storm or be unseated by a unified opposition remains to be seen.
Peter Obi
Seyi Makinde
Nasir El-Rufai
Ralph Nwosu