2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labor Party (LP) are reportedly in talks to form a new political party ahead of the 2027 elections.
The two leaders recently met to discuss the possibility of adopting a new political platform, officials said.
The two men are scheduled to meet again on Saturday, November 30, in Yola, Adamawa State, where Mr. Obi will be the keynote speaker at a ceremony to celebrate Mr. Atiku’s 78th birthday.
The event, which will be held at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) owned by Atiku, is reportedly aimed at showcasing their continued friendship.
According to The Sun, Africa Report revealed that two spokespeople confirmed that a possible merger was being considered, but declined to provide specific details.
Since their defeat by President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023, Mr Atiku and Mr Obi have been exploring avenues of cooperation. This discussion is seen as a response to issues within each party.
The PDP is facing a protracted crisis, with its current national chairman, Umar Damagum, an ally of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Wike has been a vocal critic of Atiku’s presidential candidacy and supported Tinubu in the last election.
Similarly, the Labor Party is suffering from internal discord, with relations between Obi and party chairman Julius Habre deteriorating.
Talks between Mr Atiku and Mr Obi are reportedly making progress and preparations for elections will begin in just over a year. Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai is also said to be involved in these discussions, suggesting the possibility of a major political realignment.
