Atiku Unites Opposition Forces to Challenge Tinubu in 2027

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Abuja-Nigeria

BTvNEWS: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has announced the formation of a coalition of opposition political parties aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), confirmed the development at a press conference held on Thursday, at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

The coalition, which was described as the “birth of the coalition of opposition ahead of 2027,” is a united front of opposition parties determined to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general elections, BTV News reports.

Atiku’s announcement comes amid growing concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria, particularly following President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The opposition coalition has condemned the move, describing it as “unconstitutional” and a “brazen assault on democracy”.

The coalition argued that the President’s actions violate the Nigerian Constitution, particularly Section 188, which outlines the procedure for removing a Governor through impeachment by the State House of Assembly.

They also cited Section 305 of the Constitution, which allows the President to declare a state of emergency only in extreme cases where public safety, national security, or Nigeria’s sovereignty is at serious risk.

Atiku and the opposition coalition have urged Nigerians to resist the President’s move and defend the country’s democratic institutions. They have also called on President Tinubu to reverse his decision and respect the Constitution.

The formation of the opposition coalition is seen as a significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape, as it brings together various opposition parties and stakeholders united by a common goal of challenging the ruling APC in 2027.