Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a broad-based coalition of opposition leaders has made significant progress in discussions about its structure and operational framework, according to a statement issued on Monday by Salihu Moh. Lukman, former National Vice Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The coalition, which has been steadily gaining momentum, is actively working to form a cohesive plan for the upcoming elections, but is still grappling with finding a suitable political party platform. This has emerged as the key challenge for the coalition, which includes notable figures like former vice president Atiku Abubakar, ex-Governor Peter Obi, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Babachir Lawal, and disgruntled members of the APC, among others.
The coalition emphasized that, while discussions around zoning have been raised, they have not formally addressed the issue in their negotiations. The main focus, Lukman stated, is on uniting leaders behind a shared purpose—prioritizing the collective over personal ambitions for the 2027 elections.
"We recognize the strong consensus within the coalition to put aside personal ambitions and work together for the greater good of the Nigerian people," Lukman said, further noting that the coalition is still in the process of determining which political party will serve as the platform for the 2027 contest.
The coalition leaders have also faced significant hurdles in the search for a viable political party, with many new parties applying for registration having faced delays and obstacles from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Lukman expressed concerns over this, pointing out that some existing parties are also grappling with deregistration threats.
"It is disheartening that these challenges are occurring during the tenure of a government that was initially envisioned to be progressive," he said, lamenting the shrinking democratic space under the current APC-led government. Lukman also warned that efforts to push Nigeria into a one-party system must be resisted.
The coalition’s leaders have committed to safeguarding Nigerian democracy and are calling on all patriotic Nigerians to unite in efforts to restore competitive political contests in the country. Lukman stressed that the primary goal is to ensure the creation of a political party that guarantees fairness, accountability, and democracy.
The statement concluded with Lukman urging political leaders and Nigerians alike to support the coalition’s cause, emphasizing that the fight to rescue Nigerian democracy is far from easy but remains crucial for the nation's future. Once the negotiations are concluded, formal announcements will be made, and preparations for the 2027 elections will begin in earnest.
