Governors elected under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have made it clear that the party has no intention of joining any coalition or merger as the 2027 general election approaches.

This declaration comes just over a month after former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar suggested the formation of a Coalition of Opposition Political Parties to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

Atiku, in a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, criticized the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State and hinted at the possibility of forming a united opposition front against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

However, the PDP Governors’ Forum has distanced itself from this proposal, stating that the party has no plans to join any coalition.

Bauchi State Governor and Forum Chairman Bala Mohammed, speaking on behalf of the governors, reaffirmed that the PDP remains committed to its role as the leading opposition party. While open to collaboration, the party is not pursuing any formal merger or coalition.

“The forum has resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger. However, as a major opposition party, we are open to welcoming any party, parties, or groups willing to join us in the mission to wrest power and provide good leadership in 2027,” Mohammed said after the governors’ meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State.

This statement highlights ongoing divisions within the opposition camp on the best strategy to challenge the APC in the upcoming elections. While Atiku advocates for unity among opposition parties, the PDP governors seem focused on strengthening the party from within.