Allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar are reportedly searching for a southern running mate for the 2027 presidential election. This search includes exploring options within the African Democratic Party (ADC) bloc.

According to Sunday Punch, their focus has primarily narrowed to Peter Obi. Obi was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023.

Sources indicate Atiku may consider former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. This would happen if Obi declines the offer.

Veteran journalist Dele Momodu, a political friend of Atiku, spoke with Punch. He publicly urged Obi to partner with Atiku. This alliance would form a strong opposition to unseat the ruling party.

Momodu believes Atiku and Obi could form Nigeria’s strongest alliance. Such a pact has not been seen since the 2019 election.

Atiku and Obi ran together on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket in 2019. They lost to then-incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.

Momodu expressed frustration. He described public pushback from Obi’s supporters. He blamed them for delaying this potential alliance for 2027.

Momodu stated, “They are trying to make every party have only southern candidates. They do not want strong opposition from the North. No Southern candidate can defeat Tinubu alone.”

He added, “I have told Peter Obi this repeatedly. We have met many times in my homes in Lagos and Ghana.” Momodu warned, “If Peter Obi fails to seize this ready-made union with Atiku, it would be very unfortunate. It would be like working to bring Tinubu back into power.”

Momodu warned that any delay could cost Obi a major political opportunity. He reiterated that Atiku might then choose Amaechi as his running mate.

Momodu further remarked, “Many people underestimate Amaechi. He almost single-handedly delivered power to Buhari.” He compared Amaechi’s past efforts to current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. “Amaechi performed exceptionally as Rivers State governor. He mobilized more for Buhari than anyone, even more than Tinubu.” Momodu concluded, “If Obi doesn’t decide soon, or runs alone, Rotimi Amaechi might become the running mate.”

Regarding political reconciliation between Obi and Atiku, Momodu said, “I have told Obi. There is no time to waste.”

He continued, “The person you want to unseat is already President. He holds all the power. He is either coercing or persuading governors and senators to join him.”

Momodu warned, “He aims to present a false narrative that everyone loves him. He knows his strategy.” He added, “He wants to create a false image of invincibility. Then, after their manipulations, they will simply say, ‘What did you expect?’”

Momodu concluded by highlighting 2023 results: “Despite their antics, they lost Lagos to Obi. They also lost Osun to Governor Ademola Adeleke.” He urged Obi again, “Obi needs to make up his mind. Currently, I am unsure of his party. The PDP is crumbling, and the Labour Party has crumbled. Where exactly does he plan to go?”