Opposition political parties in Nigeria have agreed to collaborate ahead of the 2027 general elections by presenting a single presidential candidate. The decision was reached on Saturday during a national summit of party leaders held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The meeting brought together key opposition groups, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).
In a communiqué issued after the summit, the parties pledged to jointly resist what they described as efforts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to dominate Nigeria’s political space and create a one-party system.
The opposition leaders affirmed their commitment to participating fully in the 2027 elections, stating that despite alleged political pressure and strategic manoeuvres by the APC, they would field candidates across all levels. Central to their strategy is the adoption of a consensus presidential candidate who will receive the backing of all participating parties.
The communiqué also raised concerns about the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The parties accused its chairman, Joash Amupitan, of bias in favour of the ruling party, calling for his removal. They argued that public confidence in his ability to conduct free, fair, and credible elections has significantly declined.
Additionally, the opposition called on the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026. According to them, certain provisions in the law could undermine the transparency and integrity of the electoral process and should be amended ahead of the next general elections.
