2027: Accord, AAC, SDP presidential candidates join forces against Tinubu
Opposition Parties Unite Ahead of 2027 Presidential Election
Presidential candidates from Nigeria’s Accord Party, African Action Congress (AAC), and Social Democratic Party (SDP) have announced a strategic alliance in preparation for the 2027 presidential election. This collaboration marks a potentially significant shift in the country’s opposition landscape.
During a meeting held over the weekend in Port Harcourt, the three candidates—Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim of Accord, Mr. Omoyele Sowore of AAC, and Prince Adewole Adebayo of SDP—discussed various pressing issues, including the state of Nigeria’s democracy, economy, and security. They voiced concerns regarding the centralization of political power, the weakening of democratic institutions, and diminishing spaces for genuine political competition. They warned of a potential shift towards “a coronation disguised as an election.”
In light of these discussions, the candidates agreed to combine their political efforts to provide a unified democratic alternative for the Nigerian populace in 2027. Their alliance aims to mobilize support from workers, youth, women, professionals, entrepreneurs, and civil society organizations, transcending ethnic, religious, regional, and political divides.
The candidates stated that the structure and selection of a common presidential candidate for the alliance would be determined later, emphasizing that national interests should take precedence over personal political ambitions. They also called for a review of cases involving Nigerians jailed for political expression and advocacy, specifically requesting the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and Bichia Maisango, who face political and cultural persecution, respectively.
The leaders condemned the legal and political harassment of Omoyele Sowore, affirming that democratic societies must tolerate dissent and peaceful disagreement. They called upon the international community and human rights organizations to closely monitor Nigeria’s democratic developments, highlighting alleged attempts by certain individuals within key institutions to undermine opposition parties and manipulate democratic processes.
While they rejected foreign interference in Nigeria’s sovereignty, they urged international partners to consider targeted sanctions against individuals involved in such actions. They declared that no entity is above the Nigerian Constitution and that multi-party democracy must be preserved.
In addressing economic issues, the candidates criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its policies on fuel subsidies and currency devaluation, which they argue have exacerbated living costs and unemployment. They advocated for urgent economic reforms, including salary increases and measures to boost domestic production and job creation.
Regarding security, the candidates called for a proactive strategy to combat insecurity, stressing the need for well-equipped security forces, community cooperation, and effective legal action against violent groups. They emphasized their commitment to defending multi-party democracy and ensuring a political environment where opposition can thrive.
“Unity must be founded on justice and inclusion,” they asserted, emphasizing that a democracy lacking meaningful opposition is merely an electoral exercise.
In a related development, the Movement for Democratic Renewal (MDR) was launched in Port Harcourt on Saturday. Co-chaired by Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim and the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, the movement calls for a united effort to revitalize Nigeria’s democracy.
During the MDR’s launch, speakers highlighted the need for Nigerians to take an active role in rescuing the country from its current challenges. Dr. Olawepo-Hashim pointed out that Nigeria was once a prosperous nation but has seen a decline in recent years. He underscored the importance of addressing workers’ welfare as a cornerstone of a functioning democracy.
Prince Adebayo Adewole encouraged citizens to resist intimidation and emphasized the necessity of ideological unity among the populace. He stated that without active participation and advocacy for workers’ rights, true progress would be elusive.
Joe Ajaero reiterated that self-advocacy is essential, urging Nigerians to fight for their interests rather than relying on external forces. The event attracted NLC leaders from various states in southern Nigeria, highlighting a collective effort to confront the country’s challenges.
