Fresh cracks have emerged within Nigeria’s opposition after factions of major parties distanced themselves from the Ibadan summit that proposed a single presidential candidate for 2027.
Blocs within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party, and Accord Party said the meeting did not reflect their official positions, insisting they would field separate candidates against President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
The PDP faction backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismissed the summit as illegitimate, claiming those who attended—including Atiku Abubakar, David Mark, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi—were misled by “impostors.”
Similarly, rival ADC factions linked to Dumebi Kachikwu denied involvement, stressing the party would pursue its own candidate. The Labour Party, through its interim chairman Nenadi Usman, said its priority remains internal restructuring, not coalition talks.
The Accord Party also rejected the summit’s outcome, warning of possible legal action over the alleged unauthorised use of its name and symbol.
The Ibadan meeting, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, had brought together several opposition figures who agreed in principle to present a unified candidate to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
However, the APC dismissed the move as ineffective, accusing Makinde of inciting violence over his reference to the 1965 “Operation Wetie” crisis. The ruling party argued that a divided opposition lacks the capacity to unseat the incumbent government.
Despite the summit’s communique warning against a one-party state, the latest reactions highlight deep divisions within opposition ranks, casting doubt on any near-term coalition ahead of the next general election.
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