Despite the ongoing efforts by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to rally an anti-Tinubu coalition ahead of the 2027 Presidential election, prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have voiced strong opposition, asserting that the party will not be coerced into an unclear coalition.
Segun Sowunmi, a PDP chieftain and convener of The Alternative, emphasized during a TVC interview that while individuals are free to pursue political alliances, any coalition involving political parties must be well-defined and respectful of each party’s ideology and structure. He explained that any coalition attempt must clarify the basis for coming together, the roles to be played, and how it aligns with the party’s principles.
“We are a pan-Nigerian party with strong respect for zoning and diversity,” Sowunmi said. “If anyone wants to drag the PDP into a coalition, they must first explain why and how it aligns with our values.” He further criticized the push for a coalition, questioning whether the PDP should dissolve its structures to join a less organized party with no leadership.
Sowunmi’s comments were echoed by Clement Jimbo, a lawmaker representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State. Jimbo dismissed the coalition as “the last kick of a dead horse,” accusing Atiku of distorting facts and ignoring the principle of fairness in the political process. He added that Atiku’s push for power to return to the North while the South still has time to complete its eight-year term is selfish and unproductive.
Jimbo also expressed skepticism about the PDP’s prospects in the 2027 elections, pointing to the party’s internal divisions. “The PDP does not stand a chance because it is completely factionalized,” he said.
Both Sowunmi and Jimbo’s remarks reflect growing discontent within the PDP over Atiku’s call for unity among opposition parties and his continued focus on the 2027 race, which some party members view as politically motivated and poorly timed.
