The Traffic

2027 Presidency: Mark cautions Atiku, Obi as FG slams coalition chiefs

The 2027 presidency race in Nigeria is heating up, with key players Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi joining forces under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). However, Senator David Mark, the ADC's interim chairman, has cautioned them against divisive politicking and emphasized the need for transparency and internal democracy within the party.

By Rhalialt Arhuoizah 

*Key Developments:*

- *ADC Coalition*: The ADC has emerged as a new opposition coalition, with Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rabi'u Musa Kwankwaso as key members. The coalition aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
- *Mark's Warning*: Senator David Mark has warned Atiku and Obi against imposing their presidential ambitions on the party, emphasizing that the ADC has no preferred candidate. He stressed the need for unity and a credible platform to attract majority support from Nigerians.
- *FG's Reaction*: The Federal Government, through Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga, has accused the coalition leaders of plotting to destabilize the Tinubu administration. The APC has also dismissed the coalition, saying it will fail like previous opposition alliances.
- *Potential Candidates*: There are speculations about a power-sharing agreement between Atiku and Obi, with some sources suggesting Atiku might serve one term and then hand it over to Obi. Another rumor suggests Rotimi Amaechi could be a consensus candidate for the coalition .

*Challenges Ahead:*

- *Internal Conflicts*: Differences in ideology and ambition might lead to internal conflicts within the coalition.
- *Electoral Strength*: The coalition's ability to challenge the APC's electoral strength remains to be seen.
- *Public Perception*: The coalition's success will depend on its ability to appeal to a broad voter base and maintain internal cohesion .