Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has addressed swirling rumours suggesting that he is plotting a political alliance with former President Goodluck Jonathan in preparation for the 2027 general elections. The speculations had gained traction after a closed-door meeting between Obi and Jonathan in Abuja, which many political observers interpreted as a possible strategy for a united opposition front aimed at challenging the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
However, Obi’s media aide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, quickly moved to clarify the nature of the meeting, emphasizing that the discussions were strictly informal and focused on matters of national interest rather than any electoral manoeuvring. According to Tanko, the media and public should not jump to conclusions about the intent of the engagement, which was conducted in the spirit of mutual respect and constructive dialogue between two prominent Nigerian leaders.
‘It was just a friendly visit’
Dr Tanko, who also serves as the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, described the encounter as a cordial exchange aimed at discussing national development priorities. “They have a long-standing relationship. Seeing them talk should not be blown out of proportion. It was a friendly discussion, not a political pact,” Tanko stated, highlighting that the dialogue centered on issues of governance and national unity rather than electoral strategies.
He further noted that their earlier meeting in Ghana had also been non-political in nature, reiterating that no formal or informal agreement concerning the 2027 elections was reached. The clarification was aimed at dousing the flames of speculation, which had already stirred debate among political followers and the broader electorate.
Opposition tension over 2027 strategy
The clarification comes at a time when discussions about opposition coalitions and potential strategies for the 2027 elections are intensifying. Within opposition circles, supporters of various parties, including those aligned with Obi and Jonathan, have taken to social media and political forums to debate leadership, strategy, and possible alliances that could maximize the opposition’s chances of success against the ruling party.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi continues his nationwide consultations and engagements with party members, stakeholders, and civil society actors, activities that many political analysts believe are part of a broader effort to strengthen his political platform and build momentum for the 2027 elections. By engaging with citizens and experts on national development issues, Obi appears to be laying the groundwork for a strategic approach to the upcoming polls, while deliberately distancing himself from speculations of any secret deals or alliances with other political figures.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, observers will be closely monitoring Obi’s moves, the reactions of the opposition, and the broader public sentiment, which could all play critical roles in shaping Nigeria’s political trajectory in the lead-up to 2027.