In light of ongoing leadership challenges within opposition parties, there are indications that several are proactively exploring ways to unite and present a consolidated front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recently been embroiled in a leadership dispute, with a former National Vice Chairman, Nafiu Bala Gombe, pursuing a court case to be recognized as the party's National Chairman. Gombe has disputed the legitimacy of the process that led to Senator David Mark's emergence as chairman, asserting that he did not voluntarily resign from the National Working Committee (NWC).
This internal conflict within the ADC escalated when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) withdrew its recognition of the David Mark-led NWC.
Prior to these developments, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria's major opposition party, had been experiencing significant internal divisions since the previous year. The party has been split into factions, with one group aligned with the governors and led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, and another faction supporting the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed.
Amidst the turmoil in the ADC, a number of other opposition parties have reportedly expressed solidarity with its current leadership. Sources suggest that these parties are considering forming a new coalition to collectively challenge the governing APC.
During a recent meeting with a faction of the PDP led by Turaki, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde stated that the gathering was in support of the ADC. However, the PDP faction's spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, indicated to journalists that the discussions were part of an ongoing process.
Following the meeting, Turaki shared on social media that the engagement was aimed at defending democratic principles that extend beyond party affiliations. He emphasized a shared belief that democracy must be safeguarded, dissent must not be suppressed, and the space for constructive opposition must be preserved and remain active.
Sources indicate that in the coming days, more opposition parties are expected to join in solidarity with the ADC.
Addressing reporters after a meeting with ADC representatives over the weekend, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the National Chairman of the PRP, stated that the visit was to offer sympathy to the ADC regarding recent events and to express disapproval of what appears to be the involvement of key state institutions in the internal affairs of political parties.
He remarked that the PRP is concerned about perceived interference in the democratic process. Baba-Ahmed affirmed that the PRP, founded on principles of democracy, justice, and fairness, will support any party, including the ADC, that faces what appears to be an unjustified, unverified, or purely partisan assault aimed at undermining the country's democratic process.
He stressed the PRP's commitment to fair play and justice within a multi-party democracy, stating, "We want free and fair elections in 2027. We cannot have that free and fair elections in 2027, if critical agents of the state intervene and interfere in the affairs of the parties. We are worried that what is happening to the ADC can happen to other parties.
"We have just concluded our convention, we are grateful to God we have not provided opportunity to anybody or an atmosphere where we will be crippled. When we see what is happening to parties like the ADC, we cannot sleep in peace. We will continue to work, so that in 2027, we will give Nigerians options and by the grace of God we will.
"By the same token, we are demanding that all the inhibitions that have been placed before the ADC and other parties that does not represent fair and legal restrictions should be removed."
Regarding the prospect of a coalition, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed noted that a coalition is already in existence, but only a few parties are prepared to actively participate.
He further elaborated, "We want a transparent process. If the ADC has infringed on the laws of the country, if the ADC has offended any part of the constitution or the laws, we expected them to be treated in accordance to that infringement. We expect a fair and open trial of all their actions.
"We will not say political parties should not be subjected to the laws of the country, but what we will say is that interference that appears to be outside those laws of the land will not be tolerated and we will resist them.
"We believe that other parties should join us to say what is going on is wrong. We will stay with the ADC on this issue. We will support them in any way we can and hopefully other parties will join us.
"Our judiciary is also on test, it is very important that the judiciary does not suggest that it is operating in the interest of the state. We are telling Nigerians not to lose hope because we will certainly fight for this."
Commenting on allegations concerning INEC, Baba-Ahmed stated, "INEC will always be on the spotlight and that is why it is absolutely essential for INEC to be above board. INEC is not an institution of the ruling party. It is an institution that should conduct itself in a manner that is transparent and fair. At this stage, all we can say is that INEC is putting itself as if it is a party in the elections and it is not. It conducts elections and can only conduct credible elections if it allows everybody to operate within its roles and regulations."
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