The national chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has stated that the coalition between his party, the Action Democratic Congress (ADC), and the New Democratic Congress (NDC) is primarily focused on removing President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) from office in the 2027 general election. According to Baba-Ahmed, the coalition aims to prevent Tinubu and APC from continuing to govern Nigeria, citing their ineptitude and insensitivity.
Baba-Ahmed emphasized that the 2027 election campaign will be significantly different from previous ones, with money and control of state institutions, including security institutions, playing a decisive role. He noted that violence is likely to be a major factor in the election, and that the PRP is designing a campaign strategy that takes these factors into account. The party is fine-tuning its campaign strategy, focusing on limiting its exposure and weaknesses while reinforcing its strengths.
The PRP national chairman highlighted the challenges of mobilizing people for rallies and supporting candidates, citing security concerns and the likelihood of violence. He also noted that the party does not have the same level of funding as the APC, but has the moral weight of public support and the backing of its coalition partners. Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence that the PRP has excellent candidates and will make a significant impact in the election.
When asked about the possibility of the coalition presenting a single candidate, Baba-Ahmed stated that all options are on the table. He emphasized that the coalition is a collaboration mechanism for opposition parties working together to defeat the APC. The PRP, ADC, and NDC are all part of the coalition, known as the G100, which aims to present a united front against the APC.
Baba-Ahmed criticized the APC's campaign strategy, accusing them of using government funds to bribe voters. He noted that the APC is rolling out projects and claiming them as achievements, despite the government's inability to implement the 2025 capital budget. The PRP national chairman urged Nigerians to recognize the importance of voting out the APC in 2027, warning that another four years of Tinubu's government will make matters worse.
The PRP is set to inaugurate its presidential campaign committee soon, with Baba-Ahmed emphasizing that the party is taking its time to get it right. He stated that the committee will comprise people who are principled, understand the politics, and have direct roots with the population. The party aims to present a compelling message to voters, focusing on issues such as poverty, corruption, security, and the divisions in the country along ethnic and religious lines.
Baba-Ahmed concluded by emphasizing the importance of the 2027 election, stating that Nigerians need to recognize the risks of giving Tinubu and APC another four years in office. He urged voters to consider the consequences of continuing with the current government, warning that the country may hardly exist after another four years of APC rule. The PRP and its coalition partners are working hard to present a viable alternative to the APC.
Key points
- The coalition between PRP, ADC, and NDC aims to remove President Bola Tinubu and APC from office in 2027.