Oyo Governor Makinde in Talks with Atiku, Peter Obi on Opposition Coalition

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed that discussions are ongoing among opposition leaders over a possible political alliance ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He revealed that he is actively involved in efforts to build a coalition capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Makinde disclosed this during an interview with ARISE News anchor, Ojy Okpe.

Makinde stated that he is willing to work with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi as part of efforts to achieve what he described as resetting Nigeria. He made it clear that the process had gone beyond preliminary considerations, saying, "Not only that I'm open, we're actively discussing this."

However, Makinde avoided declaring support for either Atiku or Obi as his preferred presidential candidate. He maintained that the opposition must carefully examine available information before deciding who should emerge as the candidate around whom other political forces would unite. The decision, he said, should not be based on personal relationships, political sentiments, or emotional attachment to any individual.

Makinde explained that opposition leaders would have to study the manifestos presented by the different political actors and compare their previous performances before reaching an agreement. He said public opinion would also play an important role in determining the direction of the proposed arrangement. "We just won't say, 'Oh, okay,' take emotional decision and say, 'Oh, it's you.' We have manifestos now, we have certain things in that manifesto."

The governor drew from his experience in the oil and gas industry to explain how opposition politicians could find themselves in different political positions depending on the outcome of their negotiations. He used the example of companies operating in the same sector maintaining competing interests while also entering into partnerships when there was a common objective.

Makinde stressed that the negotiations must not become an opportunity for politicians to pursue personal interests or secure positions for themselves. He said the discussions should focus on reaching an agreement that addresses the country's challenges and provides a common direction for the opposition. "That negotiation will not be anything personal," Makinde said. "That negotiation will be the deal for Nigeria, by Nigeria."

Makinde also cited Nigeria's political history, including the 1999 presidential election, and South Africa's experience with negotiations and cooperation arrangements, to emphasize the importance of opposition leaders looking beyond regional popularity and approaching discussions with flexibility. He expressed willingness to cooperate with other opposition leaders in pursuit of his campaign to reset Nigeria, saying, "To reset Nigeria, yes."

Key points

• Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde confirms talks with Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi on opposition coalition.
• Makinde says decision on candidate won't be based on personal relationships or sentiments.
• Governor emphasizes need for opposition leaders to approach discussions with flexibility.