Opposition Parties Unite, Plan Single Candidate for 2027 Presidential Election

Opposition parties in Nigeria have agreed to present a unified presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, in a move aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and preventing what they described as a drift toward a one-party state.

The decision was reached at a national summit held in Ibadan, where party leaders adopted the “Ibadan Declaration,” committing to joint action to “rescue” the country from what they termed the APC’s “oppressive and anti-democratic” governance.

According to the communiqué, the opposition resolved to field a single consensus candidate for the presidency in 2027, with all participating parties pledging support for the eventual nominee. The declaration also dismissed alleged attempts by the APC to position President Bola Tinubu as the sole viable contender in the upcoming election.

The summit, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, drew prominent political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was reported to have chaired the meeting.

Participants accused the APC of pursuing strategies to entrench one-party dominance and vowed to defend Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.

The communiqué also criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), calling for the removal of its chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, ahead of the 2027 elections. The opposition alleged bias in favor of the ruling party and warned that his continued leadership could undermine public confidence and spark unrest.

In addition, the parties urged the National Assembly to urgently amend the Electoral Act 2026, citing provisions they believe threaten the credibility of elections. They also called for the release of politicians detained over bailable offences and requested an extension of the deadline for party primaries until the end of July 2026.

The opposition concluded by commending Nigerians for their resilience and expressing readiness to work with citizens to safeguard democracy. They also appreciated Governor Makinde and the people of Oyo State for hosting the summit.