A coalition of opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, has emerged to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
READ ALSO: Fubara reacts to suspension, state of emergency in Rivers
Atiku confirmed this during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, responding “Yes” when asked if the gathering marked the start of a movement to unseat Tinubu.
The opposition leaders condemned Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional. Atiku accused the president of undermining democracy by removing the governor, deputy governor, and state lawmakers.
“There is no war, no widespread violence, and no justification for emergency rule,” Atiku said, arguing that the move was a political power grab rather than a security measure.
He listed constitutional breaches, stating that only the State Assembly can remove a governor and that emergency declarations require National Assembly approval. He urged lawmakers to reject the proclamation and called on Nigerians to resist what he described as an attack on democracy.
The coalition demanded an immediate reversal of the state of emergency and reinstatement of Rivers’ elected officials. They also urged the judiciary to intervene and warned that Tinubu’s actions could destabilize the Niger Delta.
Other opposition leaders at the event included CUPP’s Peter Ahmeh and activist Segun Showunmi, while former governors Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, and Abdullahi Adamu sent apologies.
