Opposition political parties in Nigeria on Saturday issued a strong warning against what they described as attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a one-party system, declaring their resolve to unite and challenge the status quo ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The resolution was contained in the “Ibadan Declaration,” a communiqué released at the end of a National Summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In the document, the parties accused the APC of anti-democratic tendencies and vowed to resist any move capable of undermining Nigeria’s multi-party democracy. They insisted that, contrary to alleged plans to impose Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate in 2027, opposition parties would field candidates and actively contest the elections.
The summit further revealed plans to present a united front by working towards the emergence of a single presidential candidate to be jointly adopted by all participating opposition parties.
On electoral matters, the opposition parties expressed a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, accusing him of bias and partisanship in favour of the ruling party. They called for his removal ahead of the 2027 elections, warning that his continued stay in office could trigger widespread unrest.
The parties also urged the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026, particularly provisions they claimed threaten the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
In addition, they condemned what they described as harassment and detention of opposition figures on bailable offences, demanding their immediate release to ensure inclusivity and full participation in the democratic process.
The communiqué also criticised recent guidelines issued by INEC, describing them as restrictive and targeted at weakening opposition parties. As part of their demands, the parties called for an extension of the deadline for party primaries to the end of July 2026.
Despite their grievances, the opposition parties commended Nigerians for their resilience and willingness to support efforts aimed at what they termed the “rescue” of the nation.
They also expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the people of the state for hosting what they described as a historic and timely summit.
The communiqué was jointly signed by chairmen of participating opposition political parties.
