A powerful coalition of political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has emerged to challenge President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At a joint press conference in Abuja, Atiku led the charge against Tinubu, accusing him of “autocratic federal overreach” and favoritism. The coalition also includes Babachir Lawal, Emeka Ihedioha, Adamu Waziri, and Salihu Usman, among others. Former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Rotimi Amaechi, though absent, sent their support.
A key issue raised was Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, which the coalition called an unconstitutional maneuver to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration. Atiku argued that Tinubu’s action lacked constitutional justification, warning that it set a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
Legal experts and opposition figures have also criticized the move, stating that Section 305 of the Constitution does not support Tinubu’s emergency declaration since Rivers State is not facing war or widespread violence. The coalition insists that the president must follow due process, urging Nigerians to resist what they describe as a “brazen assault on democracy.”
With this alliance, the 2027 election battle is shaping up to be a fierce contest between Tinubu and a formidable opposition bloc.
