2027 Battle Begins: Atiku, Opposition Parties Join Forces Against Tinubu

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has announced a new alliance of opposition political parties to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Atiku, who ran as the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, revealed this decision during a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

“This is the birth of the coalition of opposition ahead of 2027,” Atiku said, confirming that different political parties are coming together to remove Tinubu from power through the next election.

Political Crisis in Rivers State

Atiku’s announcement comes at a time of rising political tension in Rivers State. On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly. Many Nigerians, including political leaders and legal experts, have condemned this move, calling it unconstitutional.

A group of concerned political stakeholders has spoken out against Tinubu’s decision, saying it is a way to take control of Rivers State and weaken democracy.

Why is the Rivers State Crisis Important?

1. Governor Removed Without Due Process – The Nigerian Constitution does not allow the President to remove a state governor. Only the State House of Assembly can do this through impeachment.
2. Emergency Rule Misused – The Constitution allows a state of emergency only when there is war, severe violence, or a natural disaster. None of these situations exist in Rivers State.
3. National Assembly Not Consulted – Before an emergency can take full effect, at least two-thirds of lawmakers in the National Assembly must approve it. This step was ignored.
4. Alternative Legal Options Were Available – If there were political disagreements in Rivers State, the federal government could have asked the National Assembly to intervene instead of removing elected leaders.

What Are the Opposition Leaders Demanding?

1. Tinubu Must Reverse the Emergency Rule – The opposition wants the Governor and State Assembly reinstated.
2. The National Assembly Should Reject the Decision – Lawmakers are urged to vote against the emergency rule when it comes up for approval.
3. The Judiciary Must Act – Courts are expected to declare Tinubu’s decision unconstitutional.
4. Nigerians Must Defend Democracy – Civil society groups and ordinary Nigerians are called to stand up against what the opposition sees as a threat to democracy. What Happens Next?

With Atiku’s new coalition forming to oppose Tinubu in 2027, Nigeria’s political landscape is heating up. Meanwhile, the crisis in Rivers State remains a major concern, with many waiting to see whether Tinubu will step back or continue with the controversial emergency rule.

As the situation unfolds, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how these events shape the country’s democracy and the upcoming 2027 elections.