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Cover Story :2027 Power Play: Can an Atiku-Amaechi Ticket Unite the Opposition and Unseat APC?

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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

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.”

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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.

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‎China, Nigeria Mark Friendship with Joint Cultural Mural

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‎A colourful mural celebrating both China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day has been unveiled at an overseas project site, serving as a vivid symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations.
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‎The artwork, jointly produced by Chinese and Nigerian staff, features builders dressed in traditional Chinese costumes and Nigerian ethnic attire holding hands and dancing together.
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Above them, fireworks and white doves of peace illuminate the sky, while the inscription “10.1” highlights the dual significance of October 1, the China’s National Day and Nigeria’s Independence Day.
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‎On the left side of the mural, ancient Chinese architecture, red lanterns and auspicious cloud motifs showcase Chinese heritage.
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On the right, red earth, coconut palms and African drums reflect Nigeria’s cultural identity. Flowing ribbons weave across the painting, symbolising unity and shared destiny.
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‎Project officials described the mural as a “living testament” to cooperation at the frontline of development. They said it embodies mutual trust and support as workers from both countries overcome challenges together.
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‎The initiative underscores cultural integration and partnership, with both sides pledging to continue working hand in hand to strengthen ties.
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“Celebrating two festivals as one, we march forward with one heart,” a statement read, emphasising the commitment to write new chapters of friendship along the path of cooperation.
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‎The mural, rooted in the overseas project site, stands as a reminder of the brotherly bond between China and Nigeria, and the shared vision of building together for a brighter future.

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Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso Celebrates Senator Lado @60, Says Is A Political Dogma

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From Muhammad Kabir Kano

The spokesperson of Political Appointees Forum from Kano State, Dr. Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, has described Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on National Assembly Matters (Senate), who also doubles as the Chairman of the Appointees, on his 60th birthday, as a Political Blog who plays the game with maturity and respect.

Kwankwaso who also describes Senator as Political Dogma, praised his contributions to democratic governance, humanitarian services and national development.

“Senator Lado is a dependable public servant and accomplished legislator whose experience had helped strengthen relations between the Executive and the Senate and also steer ship the activities of the Political Appointees with huge respect and understanding”,

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He said it is on notice that Lado served in the Senate for four years before his by late President Buhari on Relief agency and subsequent appointment as Tinubu’s liaison officer in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

Lado represented Kano Central Senatorial District in the Seventh National Assembly from 2011 to 2015, where he served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works.

Lado facilitated several constituency projects, including the Kundila Bridge, popularly known as Gadar Lado, in Kano State. His contributions to humanitarian services through his previous roles as Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, and Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

He said Lado contributed to protecting vulnerable Nigerians, combating human trafficking and improving the welfare and rehabilitation of displaced persons.

Kwankwaso further commended the senator’s humanitarian initiatives through the Ladon Alheri Foundation, particularly in education, healthcare, women’s economic empowerment, rural water supply and support for disadvantaged communities.

” Lado’s contributions across public service reflected his commitment to national development and the welfare of Nigerians”, he added.

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EFCC Reopens Atiku’s Alleged Financial Crimes Probe

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reopened its investigation into allegations against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar following a petition by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, seeking his prosecution over alleged financial crimes.

The petition seeks to revive a case dating back to 2006, asking the anti-graft agency to revisit its investigation under former chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and consider a subsequent report by a United States Senate subcommittee.

Speaking on the development, Agbonayinma said the EFCC had acknowledged his petition, dated August 27, 2026, and received on September 1. Filed through his lawyer, Chief Hannibal Egbe Uwaifo, SAN, the petition asks the commission to reactivate its earlier report and act on the allegations.

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The former lawmaker appeared at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, where he adopted the petition and answered questions from investigators.

Agbonayinma said the matter should not be allowed to remain unresolved.

“I want to thank Nigerians, the EFCC, and those praying for me in this struggle. The laws are meant for both the rich and the poor. After the EFCC has done a fantastic job, it should not be kept under the table,” he said.

In the petition, Agbonayinma urged the EFCC to revisit its September 2006 report on Atiku and a February 4, 2010, report by the US Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, arguing that both documents should form the basis for renewed action.

The petition alleged that the EFCC had previously indicated that Atiku could face prosecution after leaving office as vice-president, when his constitutional immunity ceased to apply, but that no prosecution followed.

Agbonayinma described the alleged failure to act as a dereliction of duty and argued that pursuing the matter would demonstrate the commission’s resolve to hold politically influential figures accountable.

He also disclosed that he had petitioned US President Donald Trump over the allegations.

The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, had yet to respond to messages seeking an update on the investigation as of the time of filing this report.

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