A factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Kabiru Tanimu-Turaki, has revealed that opposition parties in Nigeria are moving toward a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections, with plans to present a single presidential candidate.
Turaki made this known on Saturday during the National Opposition Summit held in Ibadan, where key political figures gathered to strategize for the next election cycle.
According to him, the decision is aimed at strengthening the opposition’s chances at the polls, amid what he described as coordinated efforts to position President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Despite the onslaughts and machinations of the ruling party to ensure President Bola Tinubu emerges as the sole presidential candidate in 2027, we will field candidates and actively contest the elections,” Turaki said.
He further emphasized that opposition parties are committed to collaboration, adding that consultations are already underway to agree on a consensus candidate.
“We shall work towards fielding one presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, with the full backing of all participating opposition parties. This is part of a broader effort to rescue our nation and address the challenges facing Nigerians,” he stated.
The summit also produced a strong call for the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan. Opposition leaders accused him of alleged bias in favor of the APC, warning that his continued stay in office could erode public trust in the electoral process.
They argued that retaining him as INEC chairman ahead of the 2027 elections could heighten political tensions and undermine the credibility of the polls.
“Having shown bias and open partisanship, Nigerians have lost confidence in his ability to deliver a free, fair, and transparent election. His continued stay is capable of triggering widespread crises,” the leaders said.
The summit, which featured prominent figures including former Senate President David Mark, focused on opposition unity, electoral reforms, and what participants described as an urgent need to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.
