There are reports that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may have offered Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, the role of running mate on a joint presidential ticket, with a promise to serve only one term if elected.
According to a report by PUNCH, sources revealed that the proposal was first tabled during a private meeting between Atiku and Obi earlier this year in the United Kingdom.
According to the the publication, Atiku committed to serving a single four-year term, after which he would hand over to Obi. The former Anambra State governor reportedly agreed in principle but requested time to consult with his loyalists before making a final decision.
Obi had previously served as Atiku’s running mate in the 2019 election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a race they lost to then-President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On March 20, 2024, Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others announced the formation of a new coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election. The announcement sparked debate across political circles about the future of opposition unity.
Despite the coalition’s public unveiling, the PDP and LP continue to grapple with internal crises. Sources said consultations are ongoing to secure the support of party loyalists and finalise the alliance.
One source noted, “By this time next year, presidential candidates will begin to emerge. The leaders understand the urgency, and that only a united front led by Atiku, Obi, and others can defeat Tinubu.
“Obi has accepted the VP slot, and Atiku is ready to serve a single term. They’ve agreed to put this in writing if necessary, but Obi wants full buy-in from his camp before any public declaration.”
Regarding the platform the duo will use, given the current turmoil in both PDP and LP, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reportedly emerged as a strong alternative.
“The Social Democratic Party was considered initially, but there are concerns the APC may have infiltrated it. Now the ADC is gaining traction. Meetings have been held with the ADC leadership, and some loyalists have already joined quietly,” the source said.
