Fresh divisions have surfaced within Nigeria’s opposition camp after several major parties distanced themselves from the high-profile Ibadan summit that proposed a unified presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. Instead of consolidating forces, the meeting has triggered a wave of denials and counter-claims, underscoring the fragile state of opposition unity.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, rejected the legitimacy of the gathering, insisting those who attended did not represent the party. The group described the conveners as “impostors” and maintained that the PDP had not entered into any coalition arrangement, reaffirming its plan to field a standalone presidential candidate.
Similarly, divisions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came to the fore, as rival blocs loyal to the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, disowned the summit. Leaders of the factions, including Kingsley Ogga and Nafiu Gombe, said the ADC was neither involved nor bound by any resolutions reached, stressing that internal reconciliation remains their immediate priority.
The Labour Party also formally disassociated itself from the Ibadan talks. Its Interim National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, said the party is currently focused on stabilising its leadership structure ahead of its convention, adding that any decision on coalition politics would be taken transparently at the appropriate time.
In a more forceful reaction, the Accord Party condemned what it described as the unauthorised use of its name and symbol at the summit. The party, led by Prof. Chris Imumolen, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the organisers to explain the development or face legal action, insisting it would not be drawn into alliances it did not approve.
Despite the backlash, the Ibadan meeting had brought together prominent opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The gathering ended with a communique proposing a united front to challenge President Bola Tinubu and warning against what participants described as a drift toward a one-party state.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the initiative and criticised Makinde over his reference to the 1965 “Operation Wetie” crisis, describing his remarks as inflammatory. With key parties rejecting the coalition framework almost immediately, the prospect of a unified opposition ticket in 2027 now appears increasingly uncertain.
