Opposition Coalition Eyes Single Candidate for 2027 Presidential Race

Leaders of Nigeria’s opposition parties have agreed in principle to present a unified presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, in a move aimed at strengthening their chances at the polls.

The decision was reached at a national summit held in Ibadan, where top figures from major opposition blocs met to chart a common political strategy.

Among the parties involved are the African Democratic Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, and the New Nigeria People’s Party. The coalition said it would work towards consensus in selecting a single flagbearer to challenge the ruling party.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the parties declared their intention to resist what they described as attempts by the All Progressives Congress to dominate the political landscape.

The statement noted that despite alleged “onslaughts and manoeuvrings” by the ruling party, opposition groups remain determined to participate actively in the 2027 elections at all levels.

“That we shall work towards fielding one presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, which shall be agreed and supported by all participating opposition parties,” the communiqué read, adding that the move was necessary to “rescue” the country.

The coalition also raised concerns about the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission, alleging bias in favour of the ruling party. It called for the removal of the commission’s chairman, Joash Amupitan, claiming that public confidence in his ability to oversee credible elections had eroded.

Furthermore, the opposition leaders urged the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026, particularly provisions they believe could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

The Ibadan summit marks one of the most coordinated efforts by opposition parties in recent years, as political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the next general election cycle.