Why 2027 merger may failed — Saraki

Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has expressed skepticism about the ongoing coalition efforts by some former governors and political figures aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

He reportedly told close allies that the movement may not succeed, even revealing that five current governors under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are already making moves to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Saraki made these comments during a private meeting with loyalists at his Broadway residence in Ilorin, shortly after attending the Nikkah ceremony of Sheikh Suleiman Faruk Onikijipa, the Mufti of Ilorin.

According to a source who spoke with Daily Trust, Saraki addressed the swirling rumours about his possible defection to the APC, dismissing them as falsehoods being peddled by political actors trying to create confusion.

“We discussed it during the meeting and he debunked it,” the insider revealed.

On the subject of the proposed merger between opposition parties, the former governor of Kwara State reportedly raised serious concerns. He is said to doubt the viability of forming a new political party before 2027, citing what he sees as strategic moves by President Tinubu to block such efforts through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“Saraki believes Tinubu, being a smart politician, won’t allow INEC to register any new party. Also, many sitting governors from both APC and PDP have pledged loyalty to the president to secure their own political survival,” the source added.

As a result, Saraki reportedly sees little incentive for PDP governors to fund or back any new political movement. He is believed to be considering a more pragmatic approach — remaining within the PDP while cooperating with the Tinubu-led administration, similar to the strategy being used by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

“The possibility of me joining the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is nil,” Saraki reportedly told his inner circle. “No APC governor is planning to join the PDP or SDP. In fact, I can count about five PDP governors who are almost with the APC already. The remaining PDP governors are not ready to commit funds to the party.”

(With additional information from Daily Trust)