In a dramatic turn of events, Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing the emergence of a formidable coalition as prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, have united to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections. This alliance, announced on March 20, 2025, during a high-profile press conference at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, also delivered a sharp rebuke of Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, branding it unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
A Unified Front Against Tinubu
The press conference marked a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics, signaling the birth of a broad-based opposition coalition aimed at unseating Tinubu and his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. Atiku, speaking on behalf of the group, confirmed their intent when pressed by journalists, stating unequivocally, “Yes,” this coalition is designed to oust Tinubu. The gathering brought together an impressive array of political heavyweights, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, Peter Obi’s representative Yunusa Tanko, and Segun Showunmi of The Alternative movement, among others. Apologies from absent allies like former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and ex-Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi underscored the coalition’s wide-reaching influence.
This unity among opposition leaders—many of whom were rivals in the 2023 elections—reflects a strategic shift. Atiku, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obi from the Labour Party (LP), and El-Rufai, a former APC stalwart turned critic, are pooling their resources and followings to counter Tinubu’s administration. Their collective resolve stems from dissatisfaction with the APC’s governance and a shared belief that Nigeria’s democratic institutions are under threat.
Rivers Emergency Rule Sparks Outrage
The catalyst for this public display of solidarity was President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, which included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, and the state’s House of Assembly for six months. Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as sole administrator, a move the opposition coalition decried as an “illegal and unconstitutional power grab.” Atiku, reading the coalition’s statement, argued that the action violated Nigeria’s Constitution, particularly Section 188, which outlines impeachment as the sole process for removing a governor—not presidential fiat.
The coalition pointed to Rivers State’s critical role in Nigeria’s economy, given its oil wealth, and warned that destabilizing the region could unravel years of progress in the Niger Delta. “Rivers State is not a conquered territory, and Nigeria is not a dictatorship requiring the replacement of an elected governor with a military administrator,” Atiku asserted. He contrasted Tinubu’s approach with past emergencies, noting that even during insurgency-driven crises under previous administrations, governors were not removed. This, they argued, sets a dangerous precedent for federal overreach and autocratic governance.
Constitutional and Political Implications
The opposition’s rejection of the emergency rule isn’t merely rhetorical—they’ve called on the National Assembly to block its ratification, a constitutional requirement under Section 305. However, just a day later, on March 20, the House of Representatives approved the declaration with a unanimous voice vote, raising questions about the coalition’s immediate influence. The Senate’s decision remains pending as of March 21, 2025, but the House’s swift endorsement suggests Tinubu retains significant legislative support, even amidst opposition from some northern lawmakers who initially voiced dissent.
The coalition’s critique extends beyond Rivers State, framing Tinubu’s actions as part of a broader pattern of favoritism and constitutional breaches. They accused the President of betraying his oath to uphold justice “without fear or favor,” particularly citing his March 18 broadcast as evidence of bias. This narrative aims to galvanize public and political support by portraying the emergency rule as a symptom of deeper governance flaws under Tinubu’s leadership.
A Strategic Eye on 2027
While the Rivers crisis provided the spark, the coalition’s ambitions are firmly fixed on the 2027 elections. Atiku’s affirmation of their intent to challenge Tinubu signals a long-term strategy to consolidate opposition forces, reminiscent of the 2013 coalition that birthed the APC and toppled the PDP in 2015. The inclusion of figures like El-Rufai, who recently defected to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Obi, whose youth-driven “Obidient” movement shook up the 2023 race, suggests a blend of experience and grassroots appeal. Potential candidates like Amaechi and Tambuwal, also mentioned in coalition discussions, add regional heft.
Yet, challenges loom. Internal cohesion among such diverse personalities—each with presidential ambitions—will be tested. Atiku’s age (he’ll be 81 by 2027) has sparked debate, though supporters cite global examples like Donald Trump to dismiss such concerns. Meanwhile, Obi’s outsider status and El-Rufai’s polarizing tenure in Kaduna could complicate efforts to unify their bases. The coalition must also contend with the APC’s entrenched power and Tinubu’s economic reforms, which his administration touts as progress despite public hardship.
Broader National Resonance
The Rivers emergency rule has amplified existing tensions in Nigeria’s fragile federation. The coalition warned that manufacturing political crises in the Niger Delta risks reigniting historical unrest, a region whose stability is tied to national economic health. They urged civil society, political groups, and citizens to resist what they call a “brazen assault” on democracy, positioning themselves as defenders of constitutional order.
As of March 21, 2025, the situation remains fluid. Vice Admiral Ibas has assumed control in Rivers, tasked with restoring order amid a crisis rooted in the Fubara-Wike rivalry. The opposition’s next moves—whether legal challenges or mass mobilization—will shape their credibility. For now, their unity sends a clear message: Tinubu faces a reinvigorated adversary determined to alter Nigeria’s political trajectory by 2027.
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