As the 2027 general elections draw closer, opposition parties and dissatisfied members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are intensifying their behind-the-scenes consultations, strategizing to form a formidable coalition against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Key political stakeholders from the North and South, including opposition parties, APC defectors, and civil society groups, are engaged in talks to establish a united front.
While the full details of the strategies remain closely guarded to avoid APC suppression, sources revealed that the belief is growing within the opposition that the current administration’s policies have created vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
Northern stakeholders, in particular, are leaning toward a coalition aimed at unseating Tinubu, citing the negative impact his administration’s policies have had on their region.
Among those leading the talks are Olawale Okunniyi, Director General of the National Consultative Front; Ralph Okey-Nwosu, National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress; and Dr Usman Bugaje, a former presidential aide and civil society leader.
Okunniyi confirmed that the consultations involve key members from the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), as well as youth movements.
He said a national summit is scheduled for May, which will bring together influential figures to shape the future of the opposition coalition.
According to Okunniyi, the opposition movement will be unveiled either through the adoption of an existing party or the formation of a new one.
He stressed that the goal is to safeguard democracy, build a stronger political system, and create a powerful opposition, similar to how the APC once united to topple the previous government.
“We are targeting June or July, following our national summit in May. This summit will bring together key figures to shape the future of what will be a formidable, ultra-mega opposition movement. Expect something concrete by July,” Okunniyitold Punch.
He also hinted at the involvement of major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, both of whom are actively engaged in consultations about their roles within the movement.
He added that discussions about rebranding and restructuring existing parties are underway, with the possibility of adopting the PDP or other parties under consideration.
Okunniyi noted that these moves will require the consent and restructuring of leadership within those parties to ensure openness to changes.
Meanwhile, ADC National Chairman Ralph Okey-Nwosu confirmed that talks for the coalition are progressing but stressed the need for caution to avoid interference from the ruling APC.
“The current administration is weak, and Nigerians are frustrated under this government. We are mobilizing a citizens’ movement to reclaim the country in 2027,” Okey-Nwosu said.
Bugaje, a prominent northern figure, also expressed discontent with Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that a viable alternative would emerge before the 2027 elections.
