A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Buba Galadima, has urged former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to defect to the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The call came during an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today, where Galadima emphasized the need for opposition unity against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Push for a United Opposition Platform
Galadima stated that discussions have been ongoing among key opposition figures to consolidate forces under the NDC. He warned that fragmentation within the opposition bloc could weaken their chances in the upcoming elections. The NDC chieftain stressed that a unified platform is essential to challenge the APC effectively.
Concerns Over Political Pressure
Galadima also expressed concerns that the current political environment might be used to weaken opposition structures through legal and institutional pressure. He argued that such risks make unity under a single platform more urgent for opposition politicians.
Pressure Mounts on Atiku
Galadima directly urged Atiku to join the NDC, cautioning that refusal could have political consequences for opposition cohesion. He stated, "If Atiku does not join the NDC, he could be held responsible for any failure to unify opposition forces ahead of the election." However, he noted that the final decision rests with the former Vice-President.
The call comes amid increasing political maneuvering among opposition leaders as they position themselves for the 2027 elections. Recent defections from the ADC to the NDC, following the moves of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, have intensified the push for a consolidated opposition front.
