PRP Explains Snub of Obi, Kwankwaso Ahead of 2027 Elections

The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Buba Galadima Baba-Ahmed, has explained why the party rejected overtures from Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing ideological differences and concerns over political consistency.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, Baba-Ahmed said the PRP declined proposed alliances with both opposition figures after extensive internal consultations, insisting the party would not compromise its founding principles for electoral convenience.

According to him, while Obi and Kwankwaso command significant political followings, their approaches to governance and party-building do not align with the PRP’s long-standing philosophy rooted in grassroots mobilisation and social justice.

“We respect their political stature, but the PRP is not in the business of opportunistic coalitions,” he said. “Our focus is on building a credible alternative anchored on discipline, ideology and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.”

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The PRP chairman disclosed that emissaries linked to both camps had explored possible collaboration, including talks of a joint presidential ticket or broader opposition front. However, he said the party’s national executive committee rejected the proposals unanimously.

He argued that past political realignments in the country have often failed because they were driven by ambition rather than shared values, warning that repeating such patterns would undermine public trust.

“We have seen alliances collapse after elections because they lacked ideological clarity. Nigerians deserve better than that,” Baba-Ahmed added.

He also dismissed suggestions that the PRP risks political isolation by refusing to join a broader opposition bloc, maintaining that the party’s strength lies in its independence and consistency.

“Our goal is not just to win power, but to redefine governance. If that means standing alone, so be it,” he said.

The development comes amid ongoing permutations among opposition parties seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027. Both Obi and Kwankwaso, who ran strong presidential campaigns in previous elections, are widely seen as key figures in any potential coalition.

Political analysts say the PRP’s stance could complicate efforts to form a united opposition front, particularly as smaller parties weigh the benefits of alliances against the need to preserve their identities.

Despite rejecting the alliance, Baba-Ahmed left the door open for future engagement, noting that cooperation on national issues remains possible if based on clear principles.

“For us, it must be about Nigeria first. Any conversation that aligns with that is welcome,” he said.