In a significant turn of events, the political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential election is already witnessing shifts within the opposition camp. Five governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have openly reaffirmed their support for President Bola Tinubu, marking a departure from their party’s stance during the 2023 general election. This declaration was made during a New Year luncheon organized by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The G-5 Governors, including prominent figures like Wike, Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Seyi Makinde, had previously backed Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the 2023 election, despite their party’s official candidate being Atiku Abubakar.
Simultaneously, a coalition of opposition platforms has revealed plans to establish an ultra-political party ahead of the 2027 polls. The National Consultative Front (NCFront) disclosed this initiative during an inaugural meeting, dismissing speculations about Atiku, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwakwanso vying for the presidency in 2027.
The Coalition for United Political Parties (CUPP), however, rejected Atiku as the rallying point for opposition parties, adding a layer of complexity to the evolving dynamics within the opposition. Analysts point to the divisions within the opposition as a key factor contributing to their defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
Against this backdrop, the NCFront, led by Prof Pat Utomi, asserted that opposition leaders are focused on forming a new ultra-mega political party to counter the governance of the APC. The group emphasized ongoing consultations among opposition parties to strengthen their political forces for the collective goal of rescuing Nigeria from what they perceive as misrule and exploitative economic policies.
The G-5 Governors, reconvening during Wike’s New Year luncheon, activated their political machinery for the 2027 election. Former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, speaking on behalf of the group, reiterated their support for the presidency of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Wike, in turn, urged his supporters not to dwell on the sacrifices made during the 2023 election.
As the opposition landscape undergoes a dynamic transformation, stakeholders are cautiously optimistic about the prospect of a united front, while also acknowledging challenges. The NCFront announced the formation of a Merger Facilitation Group to ensure a smooth and successful merger process. While dissenting views persist, the opposition appears determined to present a formidable force in the upcoming elections. The inaugural meeting of the newly proposed mega party is expected to take place later this month.
