El-Rufai, Amaechi, Most Coalition Members Will Run Back to APC — Sowore Predicts
In a bold statement that has stirred political debates across Nigeria, activist and presidential hopeful Omoyele Sowore has predicted that key figures in the opposition coalition, including prominent leaders like Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, will eventually return to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking on Channels Television’s popular political program Rubbin’ Minds on Sunday, Sowore dismissed the current coalition led by Atiku Abubakar as unstable and unlikely to hold together through the 2027 general elections.
Sowore’s Critique of the Opposition Coalition
During the interview, Sowore expressed skepticism about the unity and longevity of the coalition formed around Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He argued that despite the coalition’s initial appearance of strength, internal divisions and personal ambitions among its members would lead many to defect back to the ruling APC.
Sowore singled out Nasir El-Rufai, the governor of Kaduna State, and Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, as key examples of politicians who might abandon the coalition. According to the activist, these leaders have stronger political incentives aligned with the APC and are likely to reconsider their positions when the political tides shift.
The Political Dynamics Behind Sowore’s Claim
The APC, which has been Nigeria’s ruling party since 2015, has seen some of its prominent members defect to opposition parties in recent years, often citing dissatisfaction with internal party politics or ideological differences. However, Sowore’s prediction suggests a possible reversal of this trend.
El-Rufai and Amaechi, both influential figures in Nigerian politics, have been at the center of various political realignments. El-Rufai, known for his strong governance style and political acumen, has occasionally been linked with moves that could reshape party loyalties. Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State and a key APC stalwart, has also been rumored to be weighing his political options amidst evolving party dynamics.
Sowore’s forecast reflects a broader narrative of fluid party affiliations in Nigerian politics, where alliances often shift based on strategic calculations rather than ideological commitments.
Atiku Abubakar’s Coalition Under Pressure
Atiku Abubakar’s coalition, which seeks to unseat the APC in the upcoming elections, has faced challenges related to internal cohesion and leadership disputes. While the coalition brings together various opposition groups and political heavyweights, critics argue that the alliance is more a marriage of convenience than a unified front.
Sowore’s comments highlight the precarious nature of such coalitions, especially when they encompass diverse political interests and personalities. The activist’s view is that without a strong, shared vision and effective leadership, the coalition risks fragmentation.
Implications for Nigeria’s 2027 Elections
The possibility of defections back to the APC could significantly impact the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. If key figures like El-Rufai and Amaechi do return to the APC fold, it may strengthen the ruling party’s position and weaken the opposition’s chances.
For the APC, regaining influential politicians would not only boost its electoral prospects but also reinforce its internal cohesion. Conversely, for Atiku’s coalition, such defections could undermine morale and complicate campaign strategies.
Sowore’s Broader Political Message
Beyond the prediction itself, Sowore’s remarks on Rubbin’ Minds reflect his broader critique of Nigeria’s political elite. Known for his activism and advocacy for systemic reforms, Sowore often challenges the status quo and calls for greater accountability among politicians.
His dismissal of the opposition coalition underscores his skepticism about conventional politics and his belief that Nigerian voters deserve more than shifting alliances and political opportunism.
Omoyele Sowore’s assertion that Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, and most members of Atiku Abubakar’s coalition will “run back” to the APC adds a provocative dimension to the ongoing political discourse in Nigeria. As the 2027 elections approach, the stability and loyalty of political coalitions will be put to the test.
Whether Sowore’s prediction will materialize remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly raises important questions about party loyalty, political strategy, and the future direction of Nigerian politics. Stakeholders and observers will be watching closely to see if the opposition can maintain unity or if the APC will consolidate its power through renewed alliances.
