As the countdown to the 2027 general election begins, Nigerian opposition leaders and political parties are exploring strategies to challenge all progressive parliament (APC).
Despite the seemingly limited options available, opposition politicians appear to be determined not to give up.
Political analysts noted that the opposition must undertake a comprehensive rebranding and structural restructuring to enhance its appeal.
Opposition parties must adopt new strategies to revamp their image and connect with a broader voter base.
Building an APC Alliance
Observers believe that forming a strategic alliance with the coalition is more important than ever. To get a chance against the APC, the opposition must present a united front, fill in ideological differences, and gather behind a common candidate or platform.
Naija News reports that a close associate of former vice president Atiku Abubakar, a leading opposition figure, has revealed to Vanguard that his camp is increasing optimism.
Speaking anonymously, sources revealed that Atik and other opposition figures are strongly aware of future challenges and are exploring options to create formidable challenges in the next election cycle.
The source said: At this point, the issue of position sharing is not in their minds.
“What they have in their minds is not who will become president or vice president, but to save our nation from staring at us in the face.
“Look, there’s a serious reorganization of power coming, which is not what happened in the past, because we face existential threats. We What we do is different from what we did in the past.
“We have a president who is becoming a full-fledged dictator. The discussion has been very good about stopping him. What we’re doing and how far we’ve gone. Details are not what we want in the media space for very obvious reasons.
“The indication of unity between the opposition parties attracts institutional attacks from the ruling parties. You put out your plans and they plant their people. All I can say for now is registering a new political party That means it’s off the table.”
We must learn from the 2023 elections – IFOH
In an interview with Vanguard, Labour Party’s National Promoting Secretary (LP) Obiola Yi Yi Yi Yi Yi “What happened to us as the opposite of 2023,” said Yi Yi. You should learn what it was.
“Imagine if all the votes that went to the opposition went to one candidate despite election robberies by the ruling party. It’s nearly impossible for the INEC and the APC to do what they did.
“From now on, opposition parties and leaders must unite and make sacrifices to free our nation, which is more than the personal ambitions of individuals and their political platforms.
“There’s no need to try and register a new party. The LP is here. This is the party that has caused a huge upset nationwide within eight months. For us who are opposed, it’s me They either come together at a sacrifice, or they either let their guard down and give the ruling party free rule.”
Presidential candidates should not allow people’s ambitions
The National Secretary of the United Party Conference (CUPP) Peter Amee Conference told Vanguard that the ruling party has infiltrated the ranks and files of the opposition parties.
“The distress of the opposition is exacerbated by the lack of internal party processes,” Ameh said.
“Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso are all eligible to become president, but we should not allow personal ambitions to take priority over the collective goal of beating the APC.
“If the opposition is going to win, they all have to ensure that their ability to install a reliable challenge is not undermined by other interests, in line with existing gentlemen’s agreements between the north and south, rooted in the power spin. It won’t be.
“But everything is not lost, and there is a growing awareness among Nigerians that the country needs viable opposition to keep the ruling party accountable.
“A gentleman’s agreement between the South and the North to control the country may provide a basis for unity between the opposition parties.
“If the South actually plans to produce the next president, the opposition must be willing to make concessions and rally behind a single candidate who could overthrow the incumbent president.
“Historically, the opposition has played a key role in shaping Nigerian democracy. During the Second Republic, the late Obafemi Aurowo as leader of the opposition was robustly checked on the ruling party’s excesses. provided.
“His example shows how strong opposition can make a real difference in promoting good governance and accountability.
“To activate their destiny, the opposition must put the differences aside and work towards a common goal.
“They must also engage in robust policy debate and provide reliable alternatives to the ruling party’s policies.
“As many political observers have pointed out, opposition politicians have already met and strategized on various platforms.
“This is a step in the right direction, but there is a need to do more to build a unified and effective opposition.
“The outlook for the Nigerian opposition looks bright, but there is still more to be done.
“By uniting behind a single candidate, engaged in policy debate and providing reliable alternatives, the opposition can stimulate fate and provide a robust check of the ruling party.
“The 2027 election may still offer an opportunity for opposition to regain its relevance and shape Nigeria’s democratic future.”
