A coalition of opposition political parties in Nigeria has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to turn the country into a one-party state, warning that such a development would pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic system.
The allegation was made in a joint communiqué issued after a National Summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The statement, titled the “Ibadan Declaration,” was signed by leaders of the participating parties following the meeting on Saturday.
Among the parties represented at the summit were the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Accord Party (AP), and other opposition groups seeking broader cooperation ahead of future elections.
The coalition said Nigeria is currently facing what it described as the grip of an oppressive and anti-democratic ruling party, adding that urgent and coordinated action is needed to protect the country’s democratic institutions and improve national governance.
The parties said they would strongly resist any effort to eliminate political competition or weaken multi-party democracy, insisting that Nigerians must continue to have genuine electoral choices.
They also alleged that moves were being made to position President Bola Tinubu as the only viable presidential contender ahead of the 2027 general elections. In response, the opposition parties declared that they would actively contest all elective positions and ensure alternatives are presented to voters.
In what could become a major realignment ahead of the next election cycle, the opposition bloc announced plans to work towards presenting a single presidential candidate in 2027. According to the coalition, a united front is necessary to challenge the ruling party and offer Nigerians a stronger alternative.
The summit also focused attention on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with the opposition parties passing a vote of no confidence in the commission’s chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan.
The parties accused the INEC chairman of bias and alleged partisanship in favour of the APC. They argued that allowing him to oversee the 2027 general elections could damage public confidence in the electoral process and create avoidable tension across the country.
According to the communiqué, the neutrality of the electoral umpire is central to credible elections, and any perception of favoritism could undermine stability before, during and after the polls.
The coalition therefore called for urgent steps to address what it described as growing concerns around the management of future elections.
The opposition parties also urged the National Assembly to review the Electoral Act 2026, saying some provisions in the law weaken electoral integrity and conflict with constitutional principles.
They maintained that reforms are needed to strengthen transparency, fairness and confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process before the next general election.
Another issue raised at the summit was the treatment of some politicians allegedly facing detention or harassment over offences they described as bailable. The coalition demanded their immediate release, arguing that democracy should allow political participation without intimidation or selective pressure.
The parties also criticised recently issued INEC guidelines, saying they create unnecessary barriers for opposition groups and could limit fair participation in the political process.
As part of their demands, they asked for the deadline for party primaries to be extended until the end of July 2026, saying additional time would allow parties to organise internal processes more effectively.
Despite their criticisms of the current political environment, the opposition leaders praised Nigerians for what they described as resilience in difficult conditions and for continuing to support democratic engagement.
They said citizens have shown determination despite economic pressure, political uncertainty and growing concerns about governance.
The coalition also expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of the state for hosting the summit, describing the gathering as an important step in building cooperation among opposition forces.
The Ibadan meeting is likely to fuel early political calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially as opposition parties consider whether a joint presidential ticket could reshape the contest against the APC.
While no consensus candidate has yet been announced, the declaration signals a growing push among opposition groups to move beyond fragmented campaigns and present a coordinated challenge in the next national vote.
