Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly offered Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, the vice-presidential slot on a joint ticket for the 2027 elections, with a promise to serve only one term if elected.
Sources say the proposal was first discussed in a private meeting between Atiku and Obi earlier this year in the UK. Atiku is said to have pledged to hand over power to Obi after four years. Obi, who served as Atiku’s running mate in the 2019 election under the PDP, reportedly agreed in principle but asked for time to consult his supporters.
The offer comes as part of broader efforts to unite opposition forces against President Bola Tinubu. On March 20, 2024, Atiku, Obi, ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others announced a coalition to challenge Tinubu in 2027—a move that sparked nationwide debate.
Despite the announcement, internal divisions persist within both the PDP and LP. Sources indicate that discussions are ongoing to solidify the alliance and gain support from party loyalists.
A source noted, “Presidential candidates will emerge by next year. The leaders know time is short, and unity is key. Obi has accepted the VP offer, and Atiku is firm on doing only one term. They may even formalize it in writing, but Obi wants full backing from his base before going public.”
Amid internal turmoil in PDP and LP, the coalition is reportedly considering the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a new political platform. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) was also considered but dropped due to concerns over APC influence.
“Meetings with ADC leaders have been held, and some allies have quietly joined,” the source added.
