Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has rejected participation in a recent opposition summit held in Ibadan, criticizing the gathering as an attempt to recycle discredited political figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sowore said he declined an invitation to attend the meeting, arguing that many of the individuals involved lack the credibility to present a genuine alternative to Nigerians.
“There is no need to pretend that the same people who presided over corruption, stagnation, and systemic decay can suddenly become champions of progress,” he wrote. “Not all Nigerians are suffering from amnesia.”
AAC Distances Itself from Opposition Coalition
Sowore emphasized that his party, the African Action Congress (AAC), would not be part of what he described as a “charade.”
“Our revolutionary party will not join any effort designed to repackage failed political actors under the guise of opposition,” he stated. “We are focused on building a people-driven alternative rooted in integrity, accountability, and real transformation.”
He also criticized major political parties—including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and African Democratic Congress (ADC)—describing them as contributors to Nigeria’s ongoing political challenges.
“Nigeria does not need a rearrangement of the same broken pieces,” Sowore added. “It needs a complete break from the past.”
Opposition Leaders Unite for 2027 Elections
Sowore’s remarks come as opposition leaders across party lines convened in Ibadan for a national summit aimed at strengthening collaboration ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting, themed “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy: A National Dialogue,” ended with participants agreeing to form a united front and potentially field a single presidential candidate to challenge President Bola Tinubu.
A joint communiqué, known as the Ibadan Declaration, warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under increasing pressure, citing concerns about concentration of power and the risk of a one-party state.
Key Political Figures Back Coalition Effort
Prominent attendees at the summit included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Rotimi Amaechi.
Speakers such as Seyi Makinde stressed the importance of a strong opposition in sustaining democratic governance, while figures like David Mark and Taminu Turaki described the coalition as a necessary step toward national recovery.
Electoral Concerns and Reform Demands
Participants also raised concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system, passing a vote of no confidence in Joash Amupitan, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), over alleged bias.
The summit called for key electoral reforms, including:
- Extending deadlines for party primaries
- Ensuring inclusivity in the political process
- Protecting fundamental human rights
- Releasing political detainees
What It Means for Nigeria’s Political Landscape
While opposition leaders are pushing for unity to challenge the ruling party in 2027, Sowore’s rejection highlights deep divisions within Nigeria’s political space.
As efforts to build a coalition continue, questions remain about whether a unified opposition can truly emerge—or whether internal disagreements will weaken its chances of presenting a credible alternative to voters.
