As Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, the opposition faces a crucial challenge to present a united front capable of unseating the APC-led administration, which has been in power since 2015.
While it may not be easy for the opposition to dislodge the ruling party, success largely depends on the readiness, cooperation, and strategic focus of the opposition groups.
The opposition has multiple potential candidates, including Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Peter Obi of the LP, and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP, who were prominent in the 2023 presidential race.
However, the divisions among these figures played a role in the failure to unseat the APC in the previous election.
For the opposition to succeed in 2027, a sense of unity and patriotism must prevail.
One notable suggestion is for the opposition to rally behind former President Goodluck Jonathan, especially on the grounds of his previous administration’s accomplishments and his broad acceptance across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Jonathan’s tenure from 2011 to 2015 is widely regarded as a period of economic growth, infrastructural development, and political stability.
His leadership was marked by integrity, and he is remembered for his pro-masses policies.
Given the current state of governance under President Tinubu, Jonathan’s leadership could offer a much-needed contrast to the APC’s policies.
The proposal calls for Jonathan to run for a single term, given that he has already served one term from 2011 to 2015.
This strategy aims to balance regional representation by pairing Jonathan with a running mate from the North.
Such a move would help unite the country, with the North playing a crucial role in ensuring a peaceful and fair transition.
Jonathan’s leadership is seen as one that prioritised the welfare of Nigerians, and he is expected to attract widespread support from various sectors, including business, politics, and the grassroots.
However, to challenge the APC effectively, the opposition must learn from the 2015 election, where diverse political parties came together to form a strong coalition, sacrificing individual ambitions for a common goal.
The APC’s victory in 2015 was largely attributed to this unity. For 2027, the opposition must replicate this unity, setting aside personal desires for the greater good of the nation.
In recent months, President Tinubu has been courting northern and southeastern support, offering key political appointments and making strategic moves, such as the establishment of a Federal University in Southern Kaduna and possible incentives for the South East, including the potential release of Nnamdi Kanu.
These gestures are part of his broader strategy to maintain control in the upcoming elections.
As the 2027 election approaches, the opposition must recognize the complexities of the political landscape and prepare accordingly.
The ruling APC, despite challenges such as electoral rigging, remains a formidable force.
However, the opposition’s ability to unite behind a strong, credible candidate, such as Jonathan, could tilt the balance in favor of a new government.
The opposition must build a strong coalition, develop a compelling manifesto, and engage in grassroots mobilisation.
The suffering masses across Nigeria are eagerly seeking a change, and it is up to the opposition to provide the leadership and vision needed to rescue the country from the current state of economic and social decline.
The time to act is now, and the opposition must rise to the challenge if they are to have any hope of winning in 2027.
Ultimately, the future of Nigeria lies in the hands of those who are willing to sacrifice personal ambitions for the collective good of the nation.
The opposition must come together, learn from past mistakes, and present a united front capable of defeating the APC in 2027.
Oluade Gbenga Bright, a Political And Public Affairs Analyst writes
