Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that opposition leaders are holding discussions on a possible alliance to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 presidential election. He also expressed his willingness to work with former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar or former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Makinde disclosed this during an interview with ARISE News anchor Ojy Okpe on Friday. He said consultations were already underway, adding that he was actively involved in efforts to determine the most suitable political arrangement ahead of the election.
The governor declined to endorse either Atiku or Obi, saying the opposition should consider candidates’ manifestos, past performance and public opinion before making a decision. According to him, the process should be guided by data rather than emotions or personal preferences.
Using his experience in the oil and gas industry as an example, Makinde said political rivals could work together when circumstances required it. He explained that opposition politicians could become rivals or collaborators, depending on the outcome of their discussions.
Asked whether he would work with Atiku if available evidence showed that the former vice-president was the strongest candidate, Makinde answered in the affirmative. He also said he was willing to work with any Nigerian to achieve what he described as a national reset.
Makinde cited the 1999 presidential election, when Olu Falae received significant support in the South-West but did not win nationally, as an example of the challenges facing opposition politicians. He said the priority should be agreeing on the best course of action before pursuing an alliance, adding that negotiations should focus on Nigeria rather than personal ambitions.
The discussions are part of wider opposition efforts to present a common candidate against the APC in 2027. Atiku and Obi have joined different political platforms, while consultations involving parties such as the ADC, APM, NDC, SDP, PDP and PRP have continued. Meanwhile, the Rainbow Coalition promoted by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is a separate cross-party arrangement aimed at mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
