“No More Splitting Votes: Opposition Agrees to Present One Presidential Candidate”

By Passman Akpos

Leaders of Nigeria’s opposition political parties have issued a strong warning to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of attempting to undermine democracy and impose a one-party system ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This position was contained in the “Ibadan Declaration,” a communiqué released at the end of a high-level opposition summit held in Ibadan on Saturday. The gathering brought together key opposition figures and party chairmen who expressed deep concern over what they described as “existential threats” to Nigeria’s democratic structure.

Central to their resolution was a firm commitment to resist any attempt by the APC to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape unchecked. The parties vowed to defend multi-party democracy and ensure robust participation in the 2027 elections, dismissing alleged plans to impose Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate.

In a significant move, the opposition bloc announced plans to rally behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election, signaling a possible coalition strategy aimed at unseating the ruling party. According to the communiqué, such unity is necessary to “rescue the nation and its long-suffering citizens.”

The summit also took aim at the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, accusing him of bias in favor of the APC. The parties called for his immediate removal, arguing that his continued leadership could undermine the credibility of the 2027 elections and potentially trigger widespread unrest.

Further demands included a call on the National Assembly to urgently amend the Electoral Act 2026, removing provisions the opposition claims threaten electoral integrity and contradict constitutional principles.

The communiqué also condemned the alleged harassment and detention of opposition politicians on what it described as “bailable offences,” urging authorities to release them immediately to ensure inclusive political participation.

Additionally, the opposition rejected recent electoral guidelines issued by INEC, labeling them as restrictive and deliberately designed to disadvantage non-ruling parties. They called for an extension of the primaries deadline to the end of July 2026.

Despite their grievances, the parties commended Nigerians for their resilience and support, expressing optimism that a united opposition could “free the nation from state capture.”

The summit concluded with appreciation to Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for hosting what participants described as a “historic and timely convergence.”

The Ibadan Declaration marks one of the strongest coordinated efforts yet by opposition forces, setting the stage for what could become a fiercely contested political battle in the lead-up to 2027.