MAKINDE EYES OPPOSITION ALLIANCE WITH ATIKU, OBI AGAINST TINUBU

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed that he is actively involved in discussions with opposition leaders, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, over a possible alliance to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Makinde made this known during an interview with ARISE News anchor, Ojy Okpe, aired on Friday, November 13. He said consultations among opposition figures were ongoing, stressing that he was not merely open to the idea of an alliance but was actively participating in efforts to determine the best political arrangement ahead of the election.

The governor, however, declined to endorse either Atiku or Obi as his preferred candidate, insisting that the opposition must make its decision based on evidence rather than personal interests or emotions.

According to him, factors such as candidates’ manifestos, previous performance and public sentiment should guide the choice of who should lead a possible united opposition platform.

Makinde also explained that political rivals could become collaborators depending on circumstances, adding that the priority should be finding the most effective way to achieve what he described as resetting Nigeria.

When asked whether he would work with Atiku if consultations and available evidence showed that the former vice-president was the strongest candidate for a united opposition, Makinde answered in the affirmative.

He also cited the 1999 presidential election, when Olu Falae enjoyed significant support in the South-West but failed to translate it into a national victory, as an example of why opposition parties must consider broader alliances.

Makinde maintained that negotiations should not be driven by personal ambition but by the national interest, saying the opposition’s first challenge was to agree on the best course of action before seeking an alliance.

The development comes as opposition figures intensify consultations ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the possibility of a joint political arrangement emerging as a major issue in the contest.