Tinubu Labels Opposition Coalition as ‘Political IDPs’ Seeking to Unseat Themselves

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has downplayed the efforts of political opponents seeking to form a coalition ahead of the 2027 presidential election, describing them as “political internally displaced persons (IDPs)” who are, in his words, “planning to unseat themselves.”

Speaking during a one-day presidential visit to Nasarawa State on Wednesday, Tinubu urged his supporters to ignore the coalition movement, asserting that hope for the country lies with his administration.

“Just don’t pay them any attention. They are the political IDPs. Don’t give them a home. The hope is here,” Tinubu declared.

Commending Development Efforts in Nasarawa

While inaugurating various projects during the visit, the President commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for his contributions to the state’s development and promised continued federal support.

“Sule is doing well. We will support whatever Governor Sule brings to the table to work harder for the prosperity and renaissance of Nasarawa State. That is what we stand for,” Tinubu said.

Governor Sule, in turn, appealed to the President to fast-track oil and gas exploration in Obi Local Government Area, where significant hydrocarbon deposits were discovered in 2023.

“There has been a hydrocarbon discovery of over one billion. We urge Your Excellency to ensure that drilling of the next exploration and appraisal wells begins soon,” Sule said.

He added that the region has the potential to become “another Saudi Arabia” through integrated oil and gas development that includes refining, gas, and power production for export.

Opposition Leaders Push for 2027 Coalition

Meanwhile, the political landscape is heating up ahead of 2027, with several opposition figures reportedly in advanced talks to form a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Prominent among them are:

Atiku Abubakar, 2023 PDP presidential candidate and former Vice President

Peter Obi, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate

Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State

In a May 22 appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Atiku’s spokesman Paul Ibe confirmed that discussions were ongoing:

 “Yes, it’s out there in the open. Discussions between Atiku, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai are ongoing. At the end, a clear direction will emerge based on the aspirations of Nigerians.”

New Party Emerges: All Democratic Alliance

Momentum for a formal opposition front intensified last week with the National Opposition Coalition Group (NOCG)—a new coalition of major political actors—submitting a registration request for a new party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The ADA is chaired by former Senate President David Mark and reportedly includes notable figures such as former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi.

More Reactions & Political Maneuvering

As the 2027 race draws nearer, political analysts expect further alignments and strategic repositioning from both the ruling APC and emerging coalitions. While the opposition is optimistic, Tinubu remains confident that his government’s record and renewed hope agenda will carry him through.