LagosExplorer reports: As Nigeria inches closer to another fiercely contested general election, fiery political activist and whistle-blower Mahdi Shehu has set social media abuzz with a bold post on X (formerly Twitter), laying out what he describes as likely political alliances and permutations ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
In the Sunday post, Shehu, known for his blunt assessments of political elites and anti-corruption stance, warned that the forthcoming elections will not be business as usual. According to him, powerful figures across party lines are already exploring unconventional alliances, some of which may catch Nigerians off guard. His analysis—though speculative—has triggered serious political debate, especially as it comes at a time when opposition parties are scrambling to form a united front.
“In all these combinations, the devil is an interested party,” Shehu wrote, warning voters to remain vigilant and proactive. “Don’t be mere spectators. Activate your PVCs and prepare.”
Who Is Mahdi Shehu—and Why His Words Matter
Shehu is not just another online commentator. He has a track record of confronting powerful interests and exposing institutional corruption. His consistent warnings about Nigeria’s fragile political future have earned him both praise and enemies across party divides. Therefore, when he speaks—especially in such pointed terms—political watchers listen.
Tinubu Still in the Mix: APC’s Predicted Line-Up
Shehu’s post projected that the All Progressives Congress (APC) may stick with its incumbent duo—President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. However, he also floated alternative running mates such as former Borno Governor Modu Sheriff, former Speaker Yakubu Dogara, and—most controversially—Catholic Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah. The inclusion of Kukah, though widely regarded as symbolic, has triggered discussions online, with many dismissing it as far-fetched while others see it as a reflection of deepening desperation for credibility.
Labour Party: Obi’s Coalition Gambit
For the Labour Party, Shehu suggested Peter Obi might join forces with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, ex-Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal, or his 2023 running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed. This prediction has fueled fresh optimism among Obi’s supporters, popularly known as "Obidients," who remain eager to see their preferred candidate forge the broad-based coalition many felt was lacking in 2023.
Notably, Tambuwal and El-Rufai bring significant northern political capital, and pairing them with Obi could potentially bridge Nigeria’s north-south electoral divide. However, ideological clashes and questions of trust remain formidable obstacles.
Atiku Eyes ADC? The Third Force Possibility
Mahdi Shehu also mentioned a surprising potential ticket: Atiku Abubakar running with former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi—possibly under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). With the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) fractured by internal rifts, Atiku may be exploring escape routes. The ADC, according to recent reports, is being considered as the preferred platform for a growing opposition coalition that includes ex-APC, LP, and PDP heavyweights.
PDP Still in Play: Jonathan, Wike, Makinde Among Probables
The PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, is far from out of the game. Shehu named several potential combinations from its ranks, including former President Goodluck Jonathan pairing with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed or NNPP’s Rabiu Kwankwaso. Other scenarios included Governor Seyi Makinde teaming up with Mohammed, or ex-Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike partnering with Kwankwaso.
But can these combinations translate into a viable strategy, especially after the PDP's disappointing 2023 performance? Critics argue that without urgent reconciliation and reforms, the party risks becoming politically irrelevant by 2027.
Public Reactions
Shehu’s post has already drawn mixed reactions. One X user replied, “Mahdi is giving us political spoilers before the real trailer drops. But will any of these men put Nigeria first?” Another wrote, “It’s not just about combinations. Nigerians are tired of recycled politicians in different packaging.”