Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has emphasized the need for opposition parties to protect and support one another as they work towards building a stronger coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. In an interview with Arise News, Baba-Ahmed explained that the emerging coalition aims to strengthen the collective capacity of opposition parties to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This coalition requires parties to work together, pool their resources, and support one another in dealing with political and legal challenges.
Baba-Ahmed highlighted that factionalization within some opposition parties has created uncertainty over whether certain candidates will eventually appear on the ballot. This situation makes cooperation among parties necessary, particularly in cases where members or factions face legal challenges. He noted that parties have become factionalized, making it uncertain whether some candidates will be on the ballot or if their particular faction of the party is recognized.
The PRP chairman stressed that the coalition must "watch each other's backs, protect each other, give each other support" and ensure that electoral laws are respected. He discussed the possibility of a single presidential candidate for the coalition but noted that it would be difficult to adopt such an arrangement at this stage, as participating parties already have candidates. However, Baba-Ahmed said the coalition has not ruled out different forms of cooperation.
Baba-Ahmed identified money, security, and political hostility as major factors that could shape the 2027 elections. He dismissed the size of political rallies as a reliable indication of electoral support, arguing that large crowds at rallies do not necessarily translate into votes. According to him, the effects of poverty and insecurity over the past three years have significantly affected Nigerians and will remain important issues ahead of the elections.
The PRP chairman revealed that several opposition parties in the emerging coalition are facing court cases, making collective support particularly important. He alleged that the APC has sometimes engaged in unfair political practices but said opposition parties are also taking steps to protect themselves. Baba-Ahmed maintained that no opposition party could defeat the APC on its own, citing the ruling party's financial resources, incumbency, and political structures.
Baba-Ahmed said the emerging coalition, involving about eight parties, is working to establish a common identity and policy priorities before settling the question of presidential candidates. The coalition wants to present Nigerians with a program addressing insecurity, poverty, economic management, youth opportunities, corruption, and the structure of the Nigerian state. This, according to him, will enable Nigerians to see the coalition as seeking to replace President Tinubu and offer a new direction for the country.
The coalition is establishing working groups and developing an identity that will guide its activities ahead of the 2027 elections. Baba-Ahmed's call for opposition parties to work together highlights the challenges faced by parties seeking to challenge the APC. The coalition's success will depend on its ability to present a united front and offer a compelling alternative to the current administration.
Key points
- Opposition parties must work together and support each other to challenge the APC.
- The coalition aims to present a common identity and policy priorities ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Baba-Ahmed dismissed the size of political rallies as a reliable indication of electoral support.
