POLITICS

APC AND PDP LEADERS JOIN FORCES IN A COALITION TO UNSEAT TINUBU – UTOMI
The Leader of the National Consultative Front, Prof. Pat Utomi, has highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a strong coalition aimed at defeating the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections, describing the initiative as a serious undertaking.
As a key opposition figure, Utomi revealed that numerous discontented members from both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party, along with members from five other political parties, were eager to join the coalition.
In an interview done, Utomi stated that a significant number of members from the APC, PDP, and other political groups had shown interest in aligning with the coalition to steer Nigeria away from crisis.
He further emphasized that multiple political movements and parties would be part of the alliance, though discussions were still ongoing regarding the specific platform to be adopted for the 2027 elections.
Utomi stated, "This is a serious matter. Nigeria stands at a critical juncture amid a shifting global landscape.
"Our current strategy is to engage key influence groups within various political parties.
"In this context, there are principled individuals within the APC and PDP who align with our values and development vision. They have substantial followings, believe in a better path forward, and have reached out to us."
"The Social Democratic Party you mentioned is still a work in progress, along with about five other parties undergoing similar processes," Utomi explained.
"Additionally, a large number of people are preparing to leave the APC and PDP and have been reaching out to us. However, it is crucial to establish a strong foundation for the core of the coalition."
When asked how the coalition plans to accommodate the various interests joining the alliance, Utomi emphasized that the guiding principle is self-sacrifice and the creation of a party leadership where decisions are made collectively.
Utomi's remarks follow the recent announcement by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition leaders regarding the formation of a coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Among those present at the event where Atiku unveiled the coalition were the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, represented by Dr. Yunusa Tanko; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal; former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai; former Ogun State gubernatorial aspirant, Segun Sowunmi; former Director-General of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Dr. Salihu Lukman; as well as Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, Chief Peter Ameh, and Soni Monidafe, among others.
On Sunday, Utomi emphasized that the coalition's goal is to "restore Nigeria’s declining cultural values while setting an example of how a disciplined political party should operate."
The NCFront has announced plans to launch a mega coalition in June, highlighting ongoing behind-the-scenes discussions among opposition parties and dissatisfied members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to build a strong alliance against the current administration.
Discussions involve key stakeholders from both the North and South, including opposition parties, former APC members, and civil society groups.
According to opposition figures, northern stakeholders, in particular, favor a coalition to unseat President Bola Tinubu, arguing that his administration’s policies have disproportionately impacted their region.
Expanding on the coalition’s vision, Utomi stated that it aims to establish a government of national unity committed to promoting the common good in a democratic, transparent, and people-centered manner.
"There is a need for a national unity government dedicated to building a developmental state that ensures progress reaches every corner of Nigeria—not one controlled by egotists and narcissists seeking state power to amass personal wealth while the country plunges into economic decline," he said.
He further emphasized the necessity of collective leadership in the new political order. "No more of the Buhari-style or 'Baba sope' approach that hindered past rescue efforts. Decisions must be made collectively. We will not fall into the trap of groupthink again."
Utomi also revealed that a collective shadow team would soon be in operation, with plans to leverage people power where necessary to realign the country's political agenda.
Regarding the coalition's objectives, he stressed, "Our goal is to make democracy work for the people and ensure a government that prioritizes citizens’ welfare while accelerating constitutional reforms for a more functional Nigeria."
"It also seeks to restore Nigeria’s declining cultural values while demonstrating, through example, how a disciplined political party should function—particularly in recruiting more competent and values-driven individuals into public service."
He continued, "The change we deserve must be led by a core group of selfless individuals committed to disciplined organization, ensuring the proper use of state authority and cooperative governance."
"It is also about promoting the common good within a free, democratic, transparent, and people-centered environment. Many political parties are infiltrated by opportunists and criminals who will accept money from those in power to create the illusion of chaos, and we must rise above that."
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board