Three prominent opposition politicians are reportedly exploring the possibility of forming an alliance to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections.
They are Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
According to ThisDay, the trio have been holding meetings to discuss their options and strategies ahead of the polls. They are said to be waiting for the outcome of the presidential election petitions tribunal, where the victory of President Bola Tinubu of the APC is being contested by Obi and Atiku.
The sources said that if the tribunal orders a re-run or a re-election, the three politicians would merge their parties and present a united front against Tinubu and the APC.
However, if the tribunal upholds Tinubu’s victory, they would focus on building a formidable party that would contest the 2027 general elections.
The sources added that the three politicians have not yet decided on who would lead the alliance, but they have agreed to bring in Obi, who is seen as a popular and credible candidate from the south-east. Obi was also the vice-presidential candidate of the PDP in 2019, when he ran alongside Atiku.
Obi, Atiku, and Kwankwaso are among the four leading candidates in the 2023 presidential race, according to various polls and surveys. They have been campaigning on various issues such as security, economy, corruption, and restructuring.
Obi has promised to tackle insecurity by strengthening the security agencies and engaging with various stakeholders. He has also pledged to revive the economy by creating jobs, attracting investments, and diversifying the revenue base. He has also vowed to fight corruption by ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
Atiku has promised to restructure Nigeria by devolving more powers and resources to the states and regions. He has also pledged to improve the quality of education and health care by increasing funding and access. He has also vowed to fight corruption by strengthening institutions and enforcing the rule of law.
Kwankwaso has promised to transform Nigeria by implementing his Kwankwasiyya ideology, which is based on human development, social justice, and good governance. He has also pledged to empower youths and women by creating opportunities and providing support. He has also vowed to fight corruption by promoting integrity and meritocracy.
The three politicians have also criticised the APC-led government for its poor performance and failure to deliver on its promises. They have accused Tinubu of being incompetent, divisive, and dictatorial. They have also blamed him for plunging Nigeria into debt, inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and poverty.
The APC has dismissed their criticisms as baseless and unfounded. It has defended Tinubu’s achievements as president, citing his efforts in improving infrastructure, agriculture, power, health, education, and social welfare. It has also praised him for restoring peace and stability in Nigeria after years of violence and insurgency.
