President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strongly criticized key political figures reportedly working to form a coalition to challenge his re-election bid in 2027. He referred to the individuals involved—including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi—as “political internally displaced persons (IDPs).”
Tinubu made these remarks on Wednesday during the commissioning of various infrastructure projects in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State. The projects were initiated and completed by Governor Abdullahi Sule, whom the President commended for prudent leadership and developmental strides.
“Sule is doing well because Bola Tinubu is doing well,” the President said, while praising Sule’s use of public resources for the state’s growth. “I see hard work coming from A.A. Sule, who is determined to use the resources available to him for the benefit, stability, and prosperity of Nasarawa State.”
Addressing the coalition talks reportedly led by opposition figures, Tinubu dismissed them as premature and baseless.
“Those who have triggered early politics with a coalition are nothing more than political IDPs. Don’t give them a home. The hope is here,” he said. He also indicated that he would not stay silent as political forces mobilize against him.
“I’m not prepared to watch quietly while they form coalitions against themselves under the guise of unseating me. What kind of politician stays silent when gangsters start plotting?”
Opposition Leaders in Coalition Talks
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, there have been confirmed reports of talks among several opposition figures aiming to unite against the All Progressives Congress (APC). Among those involved are Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi of the Labour Party, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi. The discussions reportedly aim to create a strong political alliance capable of challenging the ruling party.
Speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television, on May 22, 2025, Atiku’s spokesman, Paul Ibe, confirmed the coalition talks.
“There have been ongoing discussions between Atiku Abubakar and some opposition leaders—Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai,” Ibe stated. “Yes, it’s out there in the open. Discussions are still ongoing, and a clear position will emerge based on the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians.”
