By Danladi Bulama
Omoyele Sowore, the convener of the Take-it-Back Movement and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has firmly dismissed any possibility of forming a political alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi. Sowore asserts that such a coalition would contradict his longstanding principles and commitment to transformative politics in Nigeria.
In a recent appearance on the Honest Bunch Podcast, Sowore articulated his stance, stating, “Before you discovered Peter Obi, I was already running for President. All these shouts about Peter Obi… He just knows how to package. Anyone can do it.” He emphasized that aligning with individuals he deems as part of the existing political establishment would undermine his advocacy for genuine change.
Sowore further elaborated on his reservations, highlighting that Peter Obi previously served as Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in the 2019 presidential election. He remarked, “It’s the same reason I would never have joined hands with Atiku. And the Peter Obi you are talking about was Vice Presidential candidate to Atiku when I was presidential candidate in 2019.” This historical context, according to Sowore, underscores the interconnectedness of traditional political figures whom he believes have not delivered the necessary progress for Nigeria.
Addressing the broader political landscape, Sowore expressed skepticism about the formation of so-called mega parties, labeling them as “a coalition of mega political criminals.” He stated unequivocally, “I cannot be part of a mega fraud.” This sentiment reflects his disillusionment with alliances that, in his view, perpetuate the status quo rather than fostering authentic reform.
Sowore’s unwavering position highlights the challenges of uniting opposition figures in Nigeria’s complex political environment, especially when foundational ideologies and past affiliations present significant barriers to collaboration.
