2027 Elections: Six Opposition Parties Begin Talks with Presidential Candidates

Six opposition political parties have commenced consultations with presidential candidates as part of efforts to build a united political front ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

The discussions followed resolutions reached at the G100 Opposition Summit, which focused on establishing a framework for cooperation among opposition parties and exploring the possibility of presenting a common presidential candidate to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The parties involved in the consultations are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

Their national chairmen and national secretaries have participated in the engagements with presidential candidates as part of efforts to advance the proposed opposition alliance. The meetings reportedly took place at different times over the past two weeks.

The presidential candidates involved include former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of the ADC, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of the APM, Peter Obi of the NDC, Prince Adewole Adebayo of the SDP and Donald Duke of the PRP.

The consultations represent another step in the opposition’s efforts to overcome political divisions and develop a coordinated strategy ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Participants have argued that cooperation among opposition parties could improve their chances of challenging the ruling party, particularly by reducing the division of votes among competing candidates.

The G100 initiative emerged from concerns that multiple opposition candidates could split the votes of Nigerians seeking an alternative to the current administration. Supporters of the initiative have urged political leaders to prioritise national interests over individual ambitions and establish clear rules for cooperation before deciding on a common candidate.

However, reaching an agreement is likely to require compromises among the parties and presidential hopefuls, many of whom have their own political structures, supporters and electoral ambitions. The process will also need to address questions about the selection of a common candidate and the framework under which the participating parties would cooperate.

The opposition’s latest consultations come amid growing political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties positioning themselves to influence the direction of the next presidential contest.

Although the commencement of discussions signals a willingness among the participating parties to explore cooperation, the success of the initiative will depend on their ability to translate consultations into a workable agreement.

Whether the parties can agree on a common candidate and sustain a united front remains a major question as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.