Opposition political parties in Nigeria have agreed to present a single presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Opposition Political Parties National Summit held in Ibadan, Oyo state, on Saturday.
The parties said the decision forms part of efforts to strengthen unity and challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election cycle.
“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.
The parties also vowed to resist what they described as attempts by the APC to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.
“We shall resist all machinations by the APC to foist a one-party state on Nigeria and fight for the survival of multi-party democracy,” they said.
Furthermore, the opposition rejected alleged moves to impose President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate in 2027.
“Despite the manoeuvrings of the ruling party to impose President Bola Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate in 2027, we shall field candidates and contest,” the communiqué added.
INEC CHAIRMAN CONTROVERSY
The parties also raised concerns about the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
They alleged bias on the part of the INEC chairman and called for his removal, stating that Nigerians have lost confidence in his ability to conduct credible elections.
In addition, the opposition called on the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026, particularly provisions they believe could undermine free and fair elections.
They also demanded the immediate release of politicians allegedly detained on bailable offences, saying such actions threaten political participation and inclusiveness.
The parties further criticised recent guidelines issued by INEC, describing them as obstacles designed to restrict opposition activities.
They called for an extension of the deadline for party primaries to the end of July 2026.
Opposition leaders at the event include leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and leaders of the Makinde-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
