TDLeaders of Nigeria’s opposition political parties have resolved to unite against what they describe as attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a one-party state.
The resolution, contained in a communiqué titled the Ibadan Declaration, was issued at the end of the National Summit of Opposition Political Parties held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Ibadan.
Key Resolutions
- Defence of Multi-Party Democracy: The opposition vowed to resist all machinations by the APC to foist a one-party system, pledging to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic pluralism.
- 2027 Elections: Despite alleged manoeuvres to impose President Bola Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate, opposition parties affirmed they will contest the 2027 elections at all levels.
- Single Presidential Candidate: Parties agreed to work towards fielding one consensus presidential candidate in 2027, supported by all opposition groups, to “rescue the nation and her long-suffering masses.”
- INEC Chairman’s Removal: The communiqué declared that Nigerians have lost confidence in INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, accusing him of bias in favour of the APC.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, former ADC chairman Okey Nwosu, others at the just concluded National Summit of Opposition Political Parties held in Ibadan, Saturday, April 25, 2026 The opposition demanded he should not oversee the 2027 polls, warning his continued stay could trigger widespread crisis.
- Electoral Act Review: The National Assembly was urged to immediately amend the Electoral Act 2026, removing provisions deemed to undermine the sanctity and integrity of elections.
- Release of Detained Politicians: The summit demanded the release of opposition politicians allegedly detained or harassed on bailable offences.It insists they must be allowed to exercise their fundamental rights.
- Extension of Primaries Deadline: The opposition rejected recent INEC guidelines as obstacles designed to weaken them.
David Mark, PDP National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, Atiku Abubakar, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola at the just concluded National Summit of Opposition Political Parties held in Ibadan, Saturday, April 25, 2026 They called for an extension of the deadline for party primaries until the end of July 2026.
- Commendation of Nigerians: The communiqué praised citizens for their resilience and readiness to work with opposition parties to “free the nation from state capture.”
- Acknowledgment of Hosts: The summit expressed gratitude to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State for hosting the historic gathering.
Significance of the Ibadan Declaration
The communiqué represents one of the strongest collective statements by Nigeria’s opposition in recent years.
By pledging to unite behind a single presidential candidate, the parties signal a strategic shift aimed at consolidating electoral strength against the APC in 2027.
The demand for the removal of the INEC Chairman and amendments to the Electoral Act underscores deep mistrust in the electoral process.
Analysts note that if opposition parties sustain this unity, it could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape and intensify debates over electoral credibility.
Conclusion
The Ibadan Declaration marks a turning point in opposition politics, setting the stage for heightened contestation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
With promises of unity, calls for reforms, and demands for fairness, the opposition has positioned itself as a collective force determined to challenge the ruling party’s dominance.
The communiqué was signed by the chairmen of participating opposition parties.
