2027: Opposition parties agree to field single presidential candidate — Turaki

In a significant move towards electoral consolidation, opposition political parties in Nigeria have resolved to present a unified front by fielding a single presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. This landmark agreement was reached at the National Opposition Summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, signaling a strategic realignment aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“

Despite the onslaughts and machinations of the ruling party, the APC, to ensure that President Bola Tinubu emerges as the sole presidential candidate in 2027, we shall field candidates and contest the 2027 presidential and other elections.

Kabiru Tanimu-Turaki, a factional National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declared the resolution, emphasizing the opposition's determination to counter what they describe as efforts to ensure President Bola Tinubu runs unopposed within the APC. The summit brought together leaders from various opposition parties, underscoring a shared commitment to unity and a collective strategy to 'rescue our nation and our long-suffering masses.'

“

Three, that we shall work towards fielding one presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. We shall be agreed and supported by all participating opposition parties to rescue our nation and our long-suffering masses.

Beyond the candidate agreement, the opposition leaders also voiced strong criticism of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan. They accused him of exhibiting bias and partisanship towards the APC, arguing that his continued leadership of the commission could jeopardize the credibility of the 2027 elections. The call for his resignation stems from a perceived loss of confidence in his ability to guarantee a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.

“

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, having shown bias and open partisanship in favour of the ruling APC, should not conduct the 2027 general election as Nigerians across the board have lost confidence in him and his capacity to guarantee the required neutrality to deliver a free, fair, transparent, and credible election.

This concerted effort by the opposition highlights a critical juncture in Nigeria's political landscape. The decision to field a single candidate, if successfully implemented, could present a formidable challenge to the incumbent government. However, the success of this alliance will depend on the ability of these diverse parties to overcome internal differences and present a cohesive and compelling alternative to the electorate. The call for INEC's leadership change also reflects a broader concern about electoral integrity and the need for an impartial electoral body to foster public trust.

“

His continued stay in office is vexatious and capable of triggering widespread crises in our nation.