Why 2027 opposition coalition against Tinubu will fail — Senator Orji Uzor Kalu

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia State and current senator representing Abia North in the National Assembly, has dismissed the emerging coalition of opposition political figures aiming to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, insisting that the alliance will not succeed.

Speaking to journalists on Monday after a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia, Kalu stated that although he maintains strong personal ties with leading figures in the proposed coalition—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi—he remains loyal to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and is committed to supporting Tinubu’s reelection.

“I have great personal relationships with these men. Atiku Abubakar is my personal friend, Amaechi is also a personal friend. Peter Obi is not just a friend but a brother and my in-law—my wife is from Anambra State, so you want to take away the woman? That’s not possible,” Kalu jokes, underscoring his personal, not political, affiliation with the opposition figures.

He continued: “El-Rufai is a personal friend and brother too. But this coalition they are forming, I do not understand. What I understand and support is the APC. I have many political triggers to pull in favor of the APC, not for any opposition coalition.”

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Kalu argued that the chances of any opposition front unseating President Tinubu are slim, citing the President’s reform-driven leadership and the broad support he continues to enjoy across Nigeria.

“President Tinubu is delivering on his mandate. His economic reforms are placing Nigeria on a stronger footing. Nigerians understand the sacrifices being made and the results will become more evident in time. That’s why I believe no coalition, no matter how loud, can unseat him in 2027,” he asserted.

The senator also praised the APC’s political dominance, calling it the “largest political party in Africa,” and expressed optimism that the party would maintain its grip on power beyond 2027.

“APC is not just a party—it is a movement. Africa will go with APC. We are on course, and I will continue to work for its success,” Kalu declared.

His remarks come amid reports of behind-the-scenes meetings between key opposition figures seeking to forge a united front ahead of the next presidential election.

While details of the coalition remain speculative, the involvement of prominent political heavyweights like Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai, and Amaechi has triggered nationwide interest and debate.

Despite his opposition to the coalition, Senator Kalu’s visit to Governor Otti, a member of the Labour Party, signals an effort to maintain cordial political relationships across party lines—a reflection of his growing national influence and strategic positioning ahead of 2027.