Atiku, Kwankwaso, Obi, Lead Alliance to Challenge APC Dominance
Renowned political economist Professor Pat Utomi has disclosed that presidential hopefuls from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) have agreed to collaborate and form a formidable mega-party aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections. Utomi made this revelation during an interview on Channels TV, where he confirmed that key figures including Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, and Okey Nwosu have all consented to this alliance.
When questioned about the name of this coalition, Utomi indicated that discussions about the name were still ongoing. He emphasized that this collaboration extends beyond just political figures, involving leaders of social movements and the labor movement. Utomi also highlighted his involvement in creating a new tribe of Nigerians committed to certain core values, such as refusing to give or take bribes, which he believes are crucial for the progress of the country.
In describing the initiative as a “clean start,” Utomi emphasized the need to acknowledge that Nigeria has not had a genuine political party since 1999. He critiqued the existing political platforms as mechanisms for machine politics rather than vehicles for genuine progress. Utomi highlighted the failure of the political class to align with the aspirations of the Nigerian people, resulting in a decline in the country’s living standards and an increase in poverty and violence.
Drawing a comparison with India, Utomi pointed out the positive strides made by India’s politics in focusing on developmental goals, contrasting this with Nigeria’s perceived regression. He urged political scientists and economists to consider the divergent paths taken by India and Nigeria since 1999, with India’s economy thriving while Nigeria grapples with challenges.
The formation of this potential mega-party echoes the coalition that birthed the APC in 2013, which brought together several political parties under a unified banner.
Vanguard News