As the 2027 presidential and general elections approach, opposition parties have signaled their resolve to build a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Leaders and key stakeholders of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have already convened in Abuja as part of ongoing political realignments.
Meanwhile, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) expressed confidence in their ability to present strong presidential candidates, despite facing internal crises and leadership disputes.
This comes amid rising political uncertainty within several parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where ongoing leadership disputes over the composition of their National Working Committees (NWC) remain unresolved.
The development has raised concerns over whether these parties — aside from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and the newly registered Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC — will be fully prepared to participate effectively in the 2027 elections. However, opposition parties insist they are making strategic moves to present credible alternatives and possibly form a united front against President Bola Tinubu and the APC.
NNPP: We’ll present credible candidate
Despite the exit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the NNPP says it remains strong and will field candidates in 2027. National Secretary of the party, Dipo Olayoku, said:
“NNPP will present a formidable candidate in 2027. Although Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has left the party, we believe the NNPP has attained a level of prominence that will continue to attract credible candidates for all elections. Based on our manifesto, we remain committed to offering Nigerians real hope for a better future.”
SDP: Strategic moves underway
On its part, the SDP said it was intensifying consultations and internal screening processes to ensure it produces a strong presidential candidate. National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, described the party as a growing political force with national appeal. “The SDP is currently the go-to party in Nigeria, considering its reach, influence, and the quality of its leadership at national and sub-national levels”, he said noting that the party has, in recent months, engaged key political stakeholders and groups, including Team New Nigeria (TNN), as part of efforts to strengthen its base.
The SDP also claimed it is gaining endorsements from key northern socio-cultural groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, Northern Elders Forum, and the Movement for Good Governance. According to Aiyenigba: “With growing dissatisfaction in parts of the North, the SDP is well positioned to harness this momentum.” He further argued that rising insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship could shape voter decisions in 2027.
“The APC risks rejection by the electorate over what many Nigerians consider underwhelming performance. The SDP remains the only credible alternative, given its growing national appeal and cross-regional support”, he added
PRP, ADC leaders meet in Abuja
Meanwhile, leaders and stakeholders of the PRP and the ADC have met in Abuja as part of ongoing political realignment. The strategic meeting which was held yesterday was attended by prominent officials from both parties.
In his remarks, the PRP National Chairman, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed expressed strong solidarity with the ADC with regard to its ongoing dispute with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other government institutions.
The party condemned the attacks and anti-democratic actions targeted at the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stressing that such behavior undermines democracy and threatens national stability.
In response, the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, expressed gratitude to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) for its steadfast support, noting that it is the only party to have publicly stood by them during this difficult period.
Mark also voiced optimism that the cordial relationship between both parties will continue, with a shared focus on the broader interests of the nation.
