Atiku offers Peter Obi VP slot on one-term deal to unseat Tinubu

In a major political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly offered Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate and former Anambra State Governor, the Vice President slot on a proposed one-term joint ticket.

Atiku, Obi Rekindle Political Alliance Ahead of 2027

According to sources close to ongoing coalition talks, Atiku and Obi held a private meeting in the United Kingdom earlier this year, where Atiku presented the offer. Insiders revealed that Atiku pledged to serve only one term as president and hand over power to Obi in 2031, a move aimed at solidifying a united opposition front against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

This marks a potential reunion between the two politicians, who previously ran on a joint ticket in the 2019 elections under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Obi Yet to Confirm Acceptance

Sources close to Obi indicate he is still consulting his political allies and loyalists before making a formal commitment. However, multiple reports suggest that Obi has agreed in principle to the deal, contingent upon approval from his inner circle.

“They’ve agreed to a written agreement if necessary,” one insider revealed. “Obi is securing support from his team before making the alliance official.”

Mega Opposition Coalition in the Works

In March 2025, Atiku and Obi joined forces with political figures such as former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to form a grand opposition coalition aimed at challenging the APC’s dominance. With internal crises plaguing both the PDP and Labour Party (LP), coalition leaders are reportedly considering moving to a neutral platform, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerging as the most likely alternative.

ADC in Talks with Key Opposition Figures

ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed that the party has been in discussions with major opposition leaders, including those from PDP and LP. “We are building a mega African political party that will deliver transformative leadership,” Nwosu stated.

He also revealed that 21 deregistered political parties have joined the ADC in the past decade, strengthening its position as a potential home for the new coalition.

Mixed Reactions Within PDP and LP

While some stakeholders support the Atiku-Obi alliance, others are skeptical. Diran Odeyemi, a member of the PDP National Executive Committee, criticized Atiku’s move, saying he lacks the authority to offer the VP ticket when his chances of clinching the PDP presidential ticket are uncertain.

“Atiku cannot get the PDP ticket in 2027,” Odeyemi said. “His desperation is damaging the party.”

On the other hand, Anthony Sani, a prominent Northern elder and chieftain of the Arewa Consultative Forum, welcomed the alliance. “It’s part of democracy in action,” he noted. “Whether it gains traction remains to be seen, especially given APC’s increasing influence in the South-South.”

Labour Party Remains Uncertain

Despite the coalition momentum, Obi’s close associate and Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, emphasized that the Labour Party remains a viable platform, though it is currently embroiled in leadership disputes.

“The LP has internal issues, but it’s still our home base,” Ahmeh said. “We are open to options, but unity is key if we are to defeat APC in 2027.”