Yunusa Tanko, Chief Spokesperson of Obi-Datti and Director of Media for the Labour Party (LP), clarified Peter Obi’s stance on political mergers. Amid speculation of a potential merger to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tanko emphasized that Obi would only consider alliances focused on Nigeria’s development rather than mere power acquisition.
“His Excellency, Peter Gregory is not interested in a merger that is only for the interest of seeking power. He is interested in a merger that will bring Nigerians out of poverty, ensuring a comfortable state of healthcare, providing potable drinking water, and solving the problem of power supply,” Tanko stated on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He further added, “Any merger will be driven by ideology and a concrete programme, not just the pursuit of power.”
The discussion about a possible merger gained traction following a meeting between Obi and Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election. This meeting sparked rumors of a potential alliance between the two political figures. However, Tanko reaffirmed that Obi’s primary concern is aligning with those who share his vision for Nigeria’s progress.
Former House of Representatives member Tajudeen Yusuf expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a merger between Obi and Atiku. He pointed out Atiku’s ongoing ambition to contest presidential elections as a significant barrier to such an alliance. “They have worked together before in 2019. It would not be out of place if they work together again. I am not in their minds, but I don’t see the possibility,” Yusuf said, noting Atiku’s recent comments about continuing to contest as long as he is alive and healthy.
Yusuf suggested that both Obi and Atiku might run independently in the 2027 elections, making a merger between them unlikely. “To me, that was to send a signal to those, especially the media, who were running with the notion that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar might step down and shelve his political ambition for Peter,” Yusuf concluded.
Overall, Obi’s position remains clear: any potential merger must prioritize Nigeria’s development and align with his vision for the country’s future, rather than merely aiming to gain political power.
