President Bola Tinubu has described politicians attempting to form a coalition to oust him ahead of the 2027 general election as “political internally displaced persons (IDPs)” who are merely setting themselves up for failure.

Speaking during a one-day presidential visit to Nasarawa State on Wednesday, Tinubu inaugurated several projects and urged his supporters to disregard opposition efforts.

“Don’t pay them any attention. They are political IDPs. Don’t give them a home. Hope is here,” he said.

The President commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for advancing development in the state and pledged federal support for his administration.

“Sule is doing well. We will support whatever initiatives he brings forward to drive the prosperity and renaissance of Nasarawa State. That is our commitment,” Tinubu affirmed.

Governor Sule, in his remarks, appealed to the President to facilitate full-scale oil and gas exploration in Obi Local Government Area, where hydrocarbons were discovered in 2023.

“In 2023, an exploration well was drilled in Obi LGA, resulting in the discovery of over one billion barrels of hydrocarbons,” Sule said.

“We urge you, Your Excellency, to ensure the appraisal well and full development package commence, so we can begin production from that site.”

He further proposed the development of an integrated oil and gas facility akin to those in Saudi Arabia, encompassing exploration, refining, power generation, and exports of finished petroleum products.

Discussions around a united opposition ahead of 2027 have gained momentum, with leaders such as former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai reportedly in talks.

The momentum increased last week when the National Opposition Coalition Group (NOCG), comprising major political figures — including former Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi — approached INEC to register a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). The group is reportedly chaired by former Senate President David Mark.

On 22 May 2025, Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, confirmed the discussions during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

“Yes, talks are ongoing between Atiku Abubakar and other opposition leaders — Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai. The discussions are public knowledge, and they aim to reflect Nigerians’ yearnings,” Ibe said.