A coalition of Nigerian opposition parties have issued a strongly worded declaration following a national summit held in Ibadan on Saturday, outlining a unified front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ‘Ibadan Declaration’, signed by chairmen of the participating parties, accuses the APC of “oppressive and anti-democratic” behaviour and pledges a robust challenge to President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid in 2027.
The communiqué, released after the summit, details a nine-point plan aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and ensuring fair elections.
A key demand is the removal of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The opposition parties allege Prof. Amupitan has demonstrated “bias and partisanship” in favour of the APC, eroding public trust in his ability to oversee a credible election. They claim his continued tenure is “vexatious” and risks widespread unrest.
“Nigerians across the board have lost confidence in him,” the declaration states, adding that his presence jeopardises the delivery of “free, fair, transparent and credible elections.”
The parties are also calling for an immediate review of the 2026 Electoral Act, identifying sections they believe undermine the integrity of the electoral process and contradict constitutional provisions.
Furthermore, they are demanding the immediate release of politicians currently detained on bailable offences, arguing they are being unfairly targeted and denied their fundamental rights.
In a move signalling a desire for a unified challenge, the opposition parties have committed to working towards fielding a single presidential candidate in 2027, agreed upon and supported by all participating groups.
They also criticised recent INEC guidelines, claiming they are deliberately designed to disadvantage opposition parties and are requesting an extension to the deadline for primary elections until the end of July.
The declaration concludes with praise for the resilience of the Nigerian people and thanks to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for hosting the summit.
This unified stance represents a significant development in Nigerian politics, suggesting a concerted effort to challenge the dominance of the APC and offer voters a viable alternative in the upcoming presidential election.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this coalition can translate its declared intentions into a genuine electoral threat.
