A chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Buba Galadima, has called on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to join the party, warning that failure to do so could weaken opposition unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a television programme, Galadima said key opposition figures are already aligning under the NDC in a bid to form a strong coalition capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress.

He stressed that unity among opposition leaders is crucial, noting that political heavyweights like Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have already moved to strengthen the coalition.

According to him, Atiku’s refusal to join the NDC could derail efforts to consolidate the opposition. It may ultimately make him responsible if the coalition fails to unseat the current administration.

Galadima added that remaining outside the emerging alliance could limit Atiku’s chances of contesting the next presidential election effectively.

However, allies of the former vice-president have dismissed claims that he plans to defect, maintaining that he remains committed to his current political platform.

The development comes amid ongoing political realignments, with major opposition figures seeking to build a united front ahead of the 2027 polls.