Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, inspired by the outcome of Senegal’s recent presidential election, where 44-year-old Bassirou Diomaye Faye emerged victorious, urges opposition parties in Nigeria to emulate this example and form a coalition ahead of the 2027 general election. Atiku believes that a united opposition is essential to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), similar to the coalition that ousted the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015.
Drawing on historical precedent, Atiku recalls the coalition formed in 2014, which comprised defunct parties like the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), pand Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), alongside smaller political entities. This coalition successfully removed President Goodluck Jonathan’s PDP government from power.
Atiku, alongside other political figures such as Peter Obi from the Labour Party (LP) and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has been contemplating a coalition strategy to challenge the APC in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Reflecting on the Senegalese election, Atiku underscores its significance as a beacon of hope for constitutional democracy in the West African region. He emphasizes the lessons to be gleaned, particularly regarding the importance of democratic principles upheld by transparent and law-based electoral processes. Atiku asserts that democracy, predicated on the supremacy of the ballot, remains the most effective form of governance, and electoral bodies can instil confidence in all parties and voters by adhering to legal guidelines and principles.
Atiku expressed disappointment with the performance of Nigeria’s electoral body, INEC, citing shortcomings observed in both the 2019 and 2023 elections, contrasting this with Senegal’s recent election where major actors and citizens validated the electoral process that led to Bassirou Diomaye’s presidency.
Highlighting parallels between Senegal’s election and Nigeria’s 2015 experience, Atiku emphasized the potential for opposition victory in elections conducted by ruling parties. He reiterated his call for opposition parties to unite in a formidable coalition to challenge the ruling party, emphasizing the importance of this coalition for Nigeria’s future.
Congratulating President-elect Faye, Atiku expressed hope that his presidency would benefit Senegal and serve as an inspiration for West African nations, Nigeria included.
