Oshiomhole Rules Out Jonathan, Atiku, and Obi in 2027 Race

Adams Oshiomhole, a serving senator and former governor of Edo State, has dismissed the possibility of any opposition coalition defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 presidential election. Speaking on national television, Oshiomhole declared that former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party’s Peter Obi all face political redundancy if they decide to return to the ballot.

The senator stated that Jonathan would be making a mistake to contest again, describing the 2015 loss as a clear verdict from Nigerians. He argued that only those who wish to ruin the former president’s reputation would encourage him to run in 2027. In his view, Jonathan’s legacy is better preserved as a statesman than as another defeated candidate.

Oshiomhole’s comments come amid growing speculation about new political alignments, particularly with Atiku and Obi’s recent alliance under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The duo, who finished second and third respectively in the 2023 election, have been at the centre of discussions about forming a “Third Force” ahead of the next general election.

Opposition’s Familiar Struggle for Unity

The 2027 race is already shaping into a repeat of Nigeria’s recurring political drama, opposition fragmentation. Despite public displays of partnership, deep ideological differences and individual ambitions have consistently undermined joint efforts against the ruling party.

Atiku, who has contested for the presidency six times since 1993, has often been at the forefront of opposition alliances. His 2023 run under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was bolstered by Obi’s former support base before the latter decamped to the Labour Party. However, both camps struggled to harmonize their strategies and lost to Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC.

Political analysts argue that their renewed collaboration in the ADC faces similar challenges. The party lacks strong grassroots structures, and its name recognition is significantly less than that of Nigeria’s two dominant political parties. While Atiku brings experience and political networks, Obi’s appeal lies in youthful enthusiasm and social media mobilisation — a combination that proved insufficient in the last election.

Oshiomhole dismissed the coalition as “a recycled opposition project” that will falter under pressure, insisting that the APC’s performance at the federal level would secure another term. His statement echoes the growing confidence within the ruling party, buoyed by the administration’s reform agenda and perceived economic recovery efforts.

Meanwhile, the PDP continues to battle internal divisions, while the Labour Party faces legal and leadership disputes that have weakened its organisational strength. Observers note that without a credible unifying figure, the opposition may enter 2027 fragmented once again, a scenario that benefits the APC.

Jonathan’s Dilemma and APC’s Confidence

Goodluck Jonathan’s name has recently surfaced in political circles following quiet meetings with some northern and southern stakeholders exploring the possibility of a unity ticket. Although the former president has neither confirmed nor denied the speculation, his increased public appearances have reignited debates about his political intentions.

Oshiomhole’s intervention adds pressure on Jonathan to make a definitive statement. According to him, contesting in 2027 would undo the goodwill Jonathan regained after, conceding defeat in 2015 a moment that earned him global praise for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

Within the APC, there is growing assurance that President Tinubu remains the frontrunner for a second term. Party officials have been quick to dismiss the opposition’s attempts at rebranding as “public relations without grassroots reality.” The administration’s supporters point to ongoing infrastructure projects, security operations, and investment drives as signs of stability returning to the country.

However, critics argue that Nigeria’s economic hardship, rising unemployment, and currency instability could still fuel voter frustration, creating an opportunity for the opposition if they can rally around a single, credible figure. Yet, that unity appears elusive.

2027: Familiar Faces, Fading Impact

The conversation around 2027 reflects a deeper fatigue among voters about recycled political figures. Both Atiku and Obi command loyal fan bases, but analysts believe new entrants could alter the political equation before the election year arrives.

Younger politicians, former governors, and technocrats are expected to test their popularity as Nigerians seek fresh leadership. Civil society movements have also begun advocating for generational transition, urging the youth to move beyond online activism and engage directly in political mobilization.

Still, the APC’s internal dynamics remain crucial. While Oshiomhole projects unity, reports suggest subtle jostling for influence within the ruling party, as some governors and senior lawmakers position themselves for post-2027 leadership roles. The outcome of these power plays could determine the strength of Tinubu’s re-election machinery.

For now, Oshiomhole’s remarks have reignited the national debate on who can challenge the APC’s dominance. His dismissal of Jonathan, Atiku, and Obi underscores the shifting landscape of Nigerian politics, one where experience alone no longer guarantees relevance.

As the 2027 race inches closer, the opposition’s biggest challenge remains not the APC’s popularity, but its own inability to unite under a shared vision. Whether the ADC coalition can overcome that history will shape the next chapter of Nigeria’s democratic journey.