Elder Wole Oyelese, who previously served as the Minister of Power and Steel, has unveiled a new grassroots political organization named the “Masses Coalition for Nigeria.” He expressed his belief that this platform could significantly alter the nation's political scene and potentially pose a challenge to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released to reporters on Tuesday, Oyelese explained that the movement was born out of widespread discontent with the existing political class and what he characterized as the neglect of average Nigerians.
“Regardless of party affiliation or ideological stance, a stark and unfortunate reality prevails today: no one is actively championing the cause of the common people in this country,” Oyelese stated.
He added, “No political party has prioritized the welfare of the masses beyond mere words; their concerns remain secondary.”
Oyelese criticized the political elite for being preoccupied with “self- enrichment, internal power struggles, and elite agreements,” while the “grassroots, which represents the true Nigeria, is left to endure the severe repercussions of economic hardship stemming from poor governance and mismanagement.”
He asserted that the coalition is a direct response to the escalating frustration felt by citizens.
He highlighted that for many Nigerians, “hardship has become a constant companion,” and warned that continued indifference could lead to severe societal consequences.
“When the suffering of the populace is consistently disregarded, a society doesn't disintegrate immediately—it quietly reconfigures itself,” he observed.
“While the masses may be dispersed, their power remains,” he added.
The former Minister also contended that the ongoing disregard for the masses amidst the “current harsh economic conditions” is akin to sitting on a dormant volcano that must be prevented from erupting.
He emphasized that the coalition's objective is not to destabilize the nation or oppose established political systems, but rather to champion inclusivity and governance that is centered on the people.
“The Masses Coalition for Nigeria is neither against the government nor any political party. Our focus is on the people,” he declared.
“It aims to restore equilibrium to a political environment that has become excessively biased towards the comfort of the elite, to the detriment of the survival of the grassroots,” he explained.
Characterizing the initiative as a “reliable third force,” Oyelese suggested that the movement intends to address what he identified as a long-standing deficiency in Nigeria's political framework.
“Nigeria has long awaited a credible alternative force—one that communicates with restraint, organizes effectively, and places the populace at the core of national discussions.
“The Masses Coalition for Nigeria is emerging to fill this vacuum,” he stated.
He further cautioned that overlooking the welfare of citizens could jeopardize national stability, noting that “a nation’s strength is sustained only when its people feel acknowledged, valued, and included.”
“This is not a threat to the state, nor an incitement to disorder,” he concluded. “It is a historical and logical warning: persistent neglect of the masses carries profound implications for social unity and national stability.”
Oyelese underscored that the coalition's formation is driven by “necessity” rather than personal ambition, with the goal of redirecting governance towards “justice, inclusion, and genuine service to the people.”
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