Opposition Leaders Weigh Alliance Options as PDP Crisis Persists Ahead of 2027

Opposition figures in Nigeria are increasingly exploring the possibility of forming a new political alliance as internal divisions continue to unsettle the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the centre of the uncertainty are the party’s two remaining governors, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, whose differing views on reconciliation have left party members unsure about the PDP’s next direction.

During a Sallah visit to Bauchi, Makinde signaled a hardline stance against engaging with the faction loyal to former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike. He argued that any collaboration with Wike’s group would amount to indirect support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 ambitions, claiming the faction enjoys the backing of key state institutions. According to him, while that camp may have institutional support, his own side retains the backing of the people.

Mohammed, however, struck a more conciliatory tone, describing reconciliation efforts as a legal process driven by court decisions rather than voluntary negotiations. He expressed optimism that the party’s internal disputes could still be resolved.

Efforts to unify the party are ongoing, with prominent PDP stakeholders such as Bukola Saraki, Ahmed Makarfi, and Jerry Gana holding consultations aimed at bridging the divide before the next elections.

Meanwhile, political realignments appear to be taking shape beyond the PDP. Shortly after the Bauchi visit, Makinde and former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson traveled to Kano, where they held a private meeting with Rabiu Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement and a former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Labour Party’s Peter Obi was also present, fueling speculation about a potential opposition coalition.

Although details of the meeting remain undisclosed, it follows earlier interactions between Makinde and Kwankwaso, suggesting growing momentum toward a broader alliance.

Obi, speaking during the visit, downplayed personal political ambitions, stating that his focus remains on a larger national cause rather than securing a party ticket. He also emphasized the need for economic revival in Kano, particularly through the restoration of dormant industries.

The gathering coincided with the Kwankwasiyya movement’s annual Sallah celebration in Kano, an event that drew large crowds and carried subtle political undertones given the timing and presence of key opposition figures.

Kwankwaso, who has yet to declare his political intentions, continues to engage in consultations that observers believe are aimed at strengthening his relevance ahead of 2027, especially following reported tensions with Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Within the PDP, tensions remain high. The Wike-aligned faction has accused a group led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki of attempting to derail the party’s planned national convention through legal actions. Despite this, party officials insist the convention will proceed as scheduled, citing court rulings that affirm the legitimacy of the current caretaker leadership.

Party spokesperson Jungudo Haruna Mohammed stated that repeated efforts to engage dissenting members in dialogue had been ignored, warning against attempts to disrupt party processes through the courts.

Despite the turmoil, preparations for the PDP’s national convention slated for March 29 and 30 are said to be complete.

Adding to concerns about the party’s weakening position, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan revealed that the PDP has lost 31 senators due to the ongoing crisis, reducing its representation in the Senate from 37 to just six members. She called on defectors to return, assuring them that the party remains committed to rebuilding.

Similarly, former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu described the upcoming convention as a defining moment for the PDP, acknowledging the challenges posed by internal disputes and prolonged legal battles.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, the PDP faces the dual challenge of resolving its internal conflicts while navigating a rapidly evolving opposition landscape that could reshape Nigeria’s political balance.