Opposition parties in Nigeria have formalised a new alliance to challenge the prevailing All Progressives Congress (APC) political dominance ahead of the 2027 Nigeria presidential elections.
During a National Summit held this Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State, leaders from various political organisations gathered to address what they describe as existential threats to the nation’s democracy. The collective resolved to resist any attempt to establish a one-party state, pledging a unified front to ensure the survival of multi-party democracy in the country.
Resisting the APC Political Dominance
The summit participants expressed deep concern regarding the current political landscape. They argued that the ruling party aims to monopolise power at the expense of over 200 million citizens.
“That 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 in our country,” the communiqué, signed chairmen of participating opposition parties, stated.
Despite what the coalition describes as persistent “onslaughts and manoeuvrings” by the ruling party to secure an unopposed path for President Bola Tinubu in 2027, the opposition remains resolute. Leaders confirmed their intention to present formidable candidates to contest the upcoming polls, ensuring voters have a genuine alternative.
A Unified Strategy for the 2027 Nigeria Presidential Elections
A cornerstone of the Ibadan Declaration is the commitment to electoral cooperation. To provide a stronger challenge, the participating parties have agreed to work towards fielding a single presidential candidate. By consolidating their resources and support, they aim to rescue the nation and its “long suffering masses.” This unified approach is intended to streamline the opposition vote and maximise their chances of success against the current establishment.
Reforms to the Electoral Act 2026
The summit also addressed the legislative framework governing the voting process. Participants called on the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026. Their primary objective is to excise sections they believe threaten the sanctity and integrity of the polls.
According to the coalition, these specific provisions run counter to constitutional requirements and must be amended to ensure transparency.
Furthermore, the leaders voiced strong disapproval of the current electoral leadership. They demanded that the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, step down from his position.
“That the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, having shown bias and partisanship in favour of the ruling APC, should not conduct the 2027 general elections as Nigerians across board have lost confidence in him and his capacity to guarantee the required neutrality to deliver free, fair, transparent and credible elections. His continuous stay in office is vexatious and capable of triggering wide spread crisis in our nation,” the communiqué declared.
Addressing Concerns on Participation and Inclusivity
Beyond electoral mechanics, the summit focused on the rights of political actors currently facing legal challenges. The coalition urged authorities to release leading politicians who are detained or harassed on what they describe as “bailable offences.” They argued that these individuals must be allowed to exercise their fundamental rights to participate in the democratic process.
Finally, the participants criticised recent guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They view these new conditions as deliberate obstacles designed to stifle the opposition. Consequently, they are demanding an extension for the deadline for primaries until the end of July 2026. The event concluded with gratitude towards the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for hosting the gathering, while commending the Nigerian public for their resilience in the face of these national challenges.
