Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

As the momentum for the 2027 presidential election builds, several permutations have been ongoing within the opposition camp particularly around what viable political platform to adopt and who to field as a flagbearer capable of winning the forthcoming election.

For some observers, Atiku Abubakar currently appears to have the best chance of emerging as the candidate for the opposition taking various political factors into account. The camp’s indecision to present a unified voice thus far is, without a doubt, linked largely to the challenge of choosing acceptable candidates.

Amid these developments, and with speculation circulating on social media that Rotimi Amaechi could emerge as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from power in 2027, Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa filed the following report.

A public affairs analyst, Dr. Kabir Sa’ed Sufi, remarked that Amaechi’s fearless disposition especially during the 2014 formation of the APC makes him a strong contender for the vice-presidential slot. “Yes, I think if Obi declines and with Okowa automatically out of the equation, Amaechi could be a good VP candidate if Atiku or the opposition considers the South-East/South-South for the slot,” he stated.

The two political analysts Dr Kabir Said Sufi and Nasir Danjuma Yunusa

Dr. Sufi elaborated, “This is due to many reasons, including his consistency as a vocal politician. He has also become one of the few prominent voices of the opposition, particularly since losing the APC ticket to Tinubu.”

He further noted that Amaechi may be able to win over a segment of Buhari’s loyalists due to political alignments observed during the APC’s 2022 primary elections. “He may bring along a section of the Buhari camp to the ticket,” he added.

However, Dr. Kabir acknowledged that Amaechi may face difficulties in Rivers State, especially considering the recent reconciliation between Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike. “With Fubara now aligned with Wike, Rivers State might not be an easy ride for Amaechi,” he warned.

In contrast, seasoned political commentator and analyst, Scientist Nasir Danjuma Yunusa, offered a different view entirely.

“To start with, Atiku Abubakar should take a break from the race at least for now,” he said pointedly. When asked why, he replied, “It’s crystal clear he doesn’t command the affection of his people the way Buhari did. And that’s what he needs to unseat an incumbent government.”

He added, “Besides, this is not the time for the North. Many Nigerians, especially from the South, will likely view another northern candidacy as a selfish political move.”

Scientist Nasir also stressed that the current structure of the ruling APC in the North would make it difficult for Atiku or any other northern candidate to defeat Tinubu.

When asked for a viable alternative, he responded, “The opposition should present a southern candidate who is politically sound enough to withstand the ruling party. Then, all northern elites in the opposition camp must rally behind that candidate. That’s the only way victory can be contemplated.”

He went on to suggest that if a northerner like Atiku is to be fielded, then all southern politicians in the camp must unite behind him. “Given the current hardship experienced by Nigerians, if the opposition fields Atiku or another northern candidate, pairing him with Amaechi could be a strategic move assuming there’s no strong southern presidential aspirant in play.”

Mr. Nasir concluded by proposing potential combinations that could boost the opposition’s chances: “A ticket of Amaechi/Kwankwaso or Obi/Kwankwaso would be formidable heading into 2027. With either Amaechi or Obi as presidential candidate and Kwankwaso as running mate, the opposition could find a smoother path to Aso Rock.”

When asked whether Kwankwaso’s supporters the famed “red cap disciples” would support such a coalition, he said, “The truth is that Kwankwaso remains a local politician whose influence is strongest in Kano. While he has northern clout, it doesn’t match the national appeal of Obi or Amaechi.”

From the various perspectives offered by political analysts, one thing becomes clear: the 2027 general election may require nothing short of a political revolution for the opposition to triumph. And any follower of these opposition leaders must be prepared for just that.