The opposition coalition for the 2027 elections is taking shape, with former Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State and Liyel Imoke of Cross River State leading critical committees tasked with determining the coalition’s political direction.
This development was announced in a communiqué delivered by Dr. Umar Ardo, Convener of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), after an expanded meeting in Abuja on Thursday. The LND also officially joined the coalition during the meeting, which was attended by key northern political figures, including former Kano Governor Ibrahim Shekarau.
The coalition, supported by prominent opposition leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, is focused on building a united front for Nigeria’s political transition ahead of 2027.
Speaking to journalists, Dr. Ardo revealed that Liyel Imoke chairs the committee tasked with exploring the possibility of merging with an existing political party, while Rotimi Amaechi heads the committee responsible for evaluating the option of registering a new political party. A final decision is expected by May 30.
“We resolved to support the National Opposition Coalition Group for the transitional politics towards 2027 and to contribute to discussions on whether to register a new political party or merge with an existing one,” Dr. Ardo stated.
He stated further, “The coalition has established two committees to consider these options. Former Governor Liyel Imoke leads the committee on merging with an existing platform, while former Governor Rotimi Amaechi chairs the committee for registering a new political party. I served as the secretary of the latter subcommittee.”
Dr. Ardo also disclosed that parties like the Action Democratic Party (ADP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) are being considered as potential platforms if forming a new party is deemed unfeasible.
“Former Governor Nasir El-Rufai proposed that the SDP be considered as part of the coalition’s options. By May 30, a decision will be made on whether to proceed with the ADP, SDP, or establish a new party,” he explained.
Beyond political alignments, the LND resolved to tackle Northern Nigeria’s pressing issues, including poverty, insecurity, and unemployment. Dr. Ardo emphasized the need to engage the region’s 19 governors and mobilize citizens to hold government officials accountable.
“We agreed to pressure legislators and the government to uphold, defend, and protect the constitution of Nigeria,” he concluded.
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