Opposition rebuilding for political showdown with APC, NDC replies Kalu
Political tensions are rising ahead of the 2027 elections as opposition figures and parties reposition themselves against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dan Ulasi, has expressed doubts about the party’s ability to produce a strong presidential candidate capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu, suggesting that former Labour Party (LP) flagbearer, Peter Obi, could serve as a better alternative.
Ulasi, speaking during an interview on Arise Television, criticised the dual political alignment within the PDP, particularly the support declared for Tinubu by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, despite his influential position in the party. He argued that such contradictions could weaken the PDP’s internal cohesion ahead of the next general election.
He also warned that he may leave the party if its internal issues are not resolved, adding that the ongoing political alignments involving figures like Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso reflect a broader national restructuring of political influence.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has ruled out the possibility of Obi returning to contest its presidential ticket in 2027. The party’s caretaker committee chairperson, Nenadi Usman, stated that electoral rules and registration timelines make a late return impossible, especially once candidate registers are submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, she acknowledged Obi’s role in boosting the party’s popularity during the 2023 elections.
In a related political development, Obi held a closed-door meeting with Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, where both leaders emphasized the need for national unity and cooperation across regions. Obi said the engagement with North-East stakeholders was aimed at fostering collaboration to “build a new Nigeria,” while Mohammed described the initiative as part of efforts to bridge national divides.
At the same time, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly criticised Senator Orji Kalu over his recent comments on Nigeria’s economy and opposition strength. The party described his remarks as disconnected from the realities facing citizens, insisting that opposition forces are not collapsing but are instead reorganising for a strong political contest against the APC.
The NDC further argued that attempts to downplay opposition strength are part of efforts to project political dominance ahead of future elections, stressing that realignments within opposition ranks are ongoing nationwide.
