2027 Elections: Atiku, Obi, Makinde, Others Back Single Opposition Candidate Against Tinubu

Opposition leaders adopt Ibadan Declaration, warn of threats to Nigeria’s democracy

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

By John Ishaku | Abuja, Nigeria

Opposition political leaders across party lines have agreed to present a unified front in the 2027 general elections, endorsing a single presidential candidate to challenge President Bola Tinubu.

The resolution was reached at a national summit in Ibadan, where participants also raised concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

Key opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Seyi Makinde, converged on Ibadan, Oyo State, for a summit themed “Safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy: A National Dialogue.”

At the end of the meeting, participants adopted a joint communiqué known as the Ibadan Declaration, committing to field a single presidential candidate in 2027 to avoid vote fragmentation and strengthen electoral competitiveness against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Leaders at the summit warned that Nigeria’s democratic system is under increasing strain, citing concerns over weakening institutions, political dominance, and declining public trust.

Governor Makinde, who hosted the event, cautioned against the concentration of power, stating that democracy thrives on strong opposition. He referenced historical political tensions in Ibadan, warning against a return to divisive politics.

Leaders said the decision is to avoid fragmentation of votes and strengthen the opposition’s chances at the polls.

Former Senate President David Mark described the coalition effort as a “national rescue mission,” arguing that no single opposition party can effectively challenge the ruling structure alone.

Similarly, Taminu Turaki emphasised unity as a strategic necessity, warning that past electoral losses were partly due to disunity among opposition forces.

The summit also drew participation from notable figures including Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rauf Aregbesola, Rotimi Amaechi, Pat Utomi, and Jerry Gana.

Opposition Pushes Electoral Reforms

Beyond the consensus candidacy, the opposition leaders expressed concerns about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.

📚 Get "Spend Less, Save More" — Click here

They passed a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, alleging bias and calling for his removal ahead of the 2027 elections.

The summit further urged the National Assembly to review contentious provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and extend deadlines for party primaries to allow broader participation.

Call for Democratic Safeguards

Participants also demanded the release of political actors detained on bailable offences, stressing the need to uphold civil liberties and political inclusion.

The communiqué rejected any move toward a one-party system and insisted that Nigerians must be presented with credible alternatives in future elections.

Speakers repeatedly emphasised that the country is at a critical juncture, calling for urgent reforms to protect democratic institutions and restore public confidence.

Opposition Pushes Electoral Reforms

Call for Democratic Safeguards

The move signals a strategic shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics, aiming to consolidate votes and avoid fragmentation that has historically benefited incumbents. If sustained, a unified opposition could reshape the 2027 electoral landscape, but internal rivalries and coalition management remain key risks.