Obi, Atiku Split Opposition Ahead of Nigeria’s Election

Nigeria’s opposition is divided ahead of the 2027 presidential race. Initially, the three leading 2023 challengers discussed forming a coalition to provide a stronger opposition. However, the coalition splintered over leadership ambitions. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar secured the African Democratic Congress ticket, while Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joined the National Democratic Congress as presidential and vice-presidential candidates. Tinubu, meanwhile, benefits from a stronger governing party after six opposition governors and at least 75 lawmakers defected to his party. However, opponents blame Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of the fuel subsidy, for the economic hardship that Nigerians are battling. While surveys show dissatisfaction with Tinubu over these issues, some analysts still see him as the frontrunner for the election, especially given the opposition’s disunity.