The race to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027 is becoming more interesting as opposition political groups prepare to unveil fresh policy positions and provide an update on their efforts to build a united political front.
A coalition involving several opposition parties is expected to hold a major gathering next Thursday, November 19, where it plans to announce policy proposals, commitments and progress towards a possible common presidential candidate.
The discussions reportedly involve influential political figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
The G100 group, which is facilitating the discussions, is seeking greater cooperation among opposition parties ahead of the presidential election.
However, the biggest challenge remains deciding whether the different political interests can agree on one candidate.
The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, confirmed that a single presidential candidate is among several options being considered. He also stressed that defeating the APC would require cooperation rather than individual parties attempting to fight the ruling party alone.
But there is already a complication. The Nigeria Democratic Congress, which has Peter Obi as its presidential candidate, has indicated that it is not prepared to withdraw its candidate in favour of another party’s nominee.
This means the coalition still has serious negotiations ahead.
With the election approaching, the November 19 meeting could offer an important indication of whether Nigeria’s opposition parties can put their differences aside or continue the race separately.
