Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has spoken about the opposition coalition involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and other parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition's main objective is to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the next election. Baba-Ahmed disclosed this in an interview, discussing the PRP's preparations for the presidential and governorship elections.
According to Baba-Ahmed, the PRP is already preparing its campaign structure and studying the political environment ahead of the elections. The nature of the 2027 campaign will be affected by security concerns, access to resources, and the ability of political parties to reach voters across the country. The traditional style of holding large political rallies may become more difficult in some parts of Nigeria due to insecurity and the possibility of violence.
Baba-Ahmed alleged that money will play a major role in the election, with wealthy political parties having an advantage in mobilizing voters and running campaigns. He claimed that the PRP does not have the financial resources available to the APC but will rely on its political structure, candidates, and relationship with other opposition parties. The chairman said the party is confident in the quality of its candidates and believes its participation in the broader opposition arrangement could strengthen its position.
The PRP chairman said the party has not ruled out any option in discussions with other opposition parties, including the possibility of asking its candidate to step down for either former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi. Baba-Ahmed explained that a coalition is a mechanism for political parties to work together and that parties involved will have to negotiate the best arrangement.
Baba-Ahmed maintained that cooperation among opposition parties is preferable to contesting separately. The issue of a single opposition candidate has remained a major subject in coalition discussions, with some parties, like the NDC, committed to their own presidential ticket but open to cooperation. The PRP chairman said discussions with other parties and political leaders are continuing, with consultations already begun and a positive reception from some political actors.
Baba-Ahmed criticised the Tinubu administration over worsening economic and security conditions, citing reports of kidnappings and killings across the country. He questioned the level of direct engagement between the presidency and communities affected by insecurity, arguing that the federal government should demonstrate greater concern for affected communities.
The PRP chairman also criticised President Tinubu's foreign trips while insecurity continues to affect parts of Nigeria. Baba-Ahmed said the PRP believes the 2027 election should provide Nigerians with an opportunity to decide whether the APC should remain in power, citing increased economic hardship and insecurity under the current administration.
Key points
- The PRP is preparing for the 2027 elections and is open to coalition discussions with other opposition parties.
- The party's chairman, Baba-Ahmed, criticised the Tinubu administration over economic and security conditions.
- A single opposition candidate remains a major subject in coalition discussions.
