2027: Atiku, Obi, Duke’s alliance, exercise in futility — Tinubu’s men
By Henry Umrou, Omeiza Ajayi, and Adeola Badru
ABUJA – Supporters of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign, operating under the Renewed Hope Project 2027, have dismissed the planned alliance among several opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Donald Duke, asserting that it poses no threat to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The response came during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Project 2027, held in Abuja under the theme, “A New Beginning, A Shared Vision, With Greater Nigeria.”
Meanwhile, the G100, a coalition of concerned Nigerians, announced it has concluded consultations with leaders from six opposition parties as part of its efforts to create a unified front ahead of the 2027 general elections. This includes representatives from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
In a statement issued by Salihu Moh. Lukman on behalf of the G100, the group described the engagements with party leaders as frank and constructive. Their discussions aim to unify the opposition ahead of the upcoming elections.
The factions led by Atiku Abubakar and Seyi Makinde expressed support for the coalition, indicating that they are open to discussions at the upcoming August 18 summit.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, representing the Renewed Hope Project, characterized the group’s efforts as vital for consolidating support for President Tinubu. He argued that the administration is tackling structural issues in Nigeria more effectively than previous governments, citing local government autonomy and digital reforms as key initiatives aimed at enhancing governance.
Akume emphasized that the Tinubu administration is committed to presenting verifiable achievements to rally support for the 2027 elections and asserted that foreign investment interest in Nigeria indicates a positive trend for the economy.
Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (retd), chairman of the Renewed Hope Project’s Board of Trustees, criticized the opposition’s coalition as an “exercise in futility.” He argued that the effectiveness of the Tinubu administration will ultimately determine the election’s outcome, asserting that the opposition alliance will not significantly challenge the APC.
In contrast, the G100 acknowledged that its consultations with opposition parties follow an open letter dated August 2, 2026, addressing leaders, civil society, and concerned citizens to discuss the necessity of a cohesive opposition.
The upcoming August 18 summit in Abuja aims to facilitate structured discussions on opposition unity. A statement from the G100 noted the importance of protecting the integrity of conversations without the distraction of media coverage.
The NDC, through its National Publicity Secretary Osa Director, expressed openness to a united opposition against the ruling APC, provided the discussions include consideration of the most popular presidential candidates.
Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar affirmed his willingness to engage in any sincere efforts promoting opposition cooperation for the 2027 elections, emphasizing that the challenges facing the country necessitate a unified response from opposition leaders.
Governor Seyi Makinde also supported the idea of political leaders uniting for common goals, arguing that democratic dialogue is essential for addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
Political dynamics surrounding the 2027 elections continue to converge, with both sides preparing for an increasingly competitive landscape.
