Labour Party Loyalist Refutes Rumors of Defection
The political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve as speculation mounts over potential party realignments ahead of the 2027 elections. In a definitive statement Monday, Yunusa Tanko, Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, firmly rejected claims that Peter Obi has plans to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
“As far as I am concerned, His Excellency, Peter Obi, is a member of the Labour Party. It remains so until when there is any other thing that may come up,” Tanko declared during his appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief.
SDP Leadership Claims Contested
Tanko’s statement comes as a direct response to assertions made by Adewole Adebayo, SDP’s 2023 presidential flag bearer, who recently claimed that both Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar were engaged in negotiations to join the SDP. These claims weren’t isolated, as SDP’s National Secretary Olu Agunloye had previously suggested that representatives of Obi were actively lobbying the party in preparation for the next electoral cycle.
The Labour Party chieftain, who campaigned vigorously for Obi during the 2023 presidential race, indicated that the party leadership would soon clarify several positions in light of recent developments, particularly regarding the Supreme Court judgment that removed Julius Abure from his position as LP national chairman.
“As I speak to you right now, there is going to be a meeting possibly within the week by the leaders of the party to make fundamental positions clear to everyone, and in line with the position of the Supreme Court ruling and that of course will put the whole matter to rest,” he elaborated.
Opposition Coalition Forms Amid Economic Challenges
The rumors of political realignment gained significant momentum on March 20, 2025, when opposition figures including Atiku, Obi, and former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai announced the formation of a coalition. This alliance aims to challenge incumbent President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose administration faces mounting criticism over economic management, with inflation reaching historic highs and living costs becoming increasingly burdensome for average Nigerians.
Electoral Mathematics Driving Coalition Strategy
The strategy behind this coalition appears rooted in electoral mathematics. During the 2023 presidential election, Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party’s Obi secured second and third positions respectively. Their combined vote tally exceeded 12 million – more than four million votes above what Tinubu received when declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Internal Party Turmoil Drives Political Migrations
Both the PDP and Labour Party continue to grapple with internal strife, characterized by protracted leadership disputes and numerous court cases. Similarly, alleged mistreatment of certain APC members has led to discontent within the ruling party. These internal challenges across major political organizations have enhanced the appeal of the SDP as a potential alternative platform for disaffected politicians.
Despite these complex dynamics, Tanko’s statement reinforces that – at least for now – Peter Obi remains committed to the Labour Party’s platform as Nigeria’s political forces continue realigning ahead of the crucial 2027 elections.
What’s Next for Nigeria’s Opposition?
Political analysts suggest the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the opposition can maintain unity and develop a coherent platform to challenge the incumbent administration. The planned meeting of Labour Party leaders could provide crucial insights into how Obi and his supporters intend to navigate Nigeria’s increasingly fractured political landscape.
As economic challenges persist and public dissatisfaction grows, the ability of opposition figures to transcend party differences may ultimately determine their electoral viability in 2027.
