Coalition Urges Opposition to Unite Behind Single Presidential Candidate

The G-100 coalition has urged Nigeria's opposition leaders to unite behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election, warning that continued division will strengthen the APC. The group plans to convene a meeting of key opposition figures to negotiate a consensus candidate and a common strategy for the polls.

Daniel Momodu · August 2, 2026 · 56

A coalition of 100 prominent Nigerians under the banner of the G-100 has called on opposition leaders to put aside personal ambitions and rally behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, arguing that only a united front can effectively challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The appeal was contained in a seven-page open letter titled "The Doctrine of a Necessary Democratic Opposition."

The letter, signed by former APC National Vice Chairman (North-West), Salihu Lukman, former House of Representatives member Nnenna Ukeje, former Kogi State Deputy Governor Simon Achuba, Professor Anthony Kila and 96 others, urged key opposition figures—including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to begin immediate negotiations aimed at producing a consensus presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

According to the coalition, Nigeria's biggest challenge is not only economic hardship but also the gradual weakening of democratic institutions caused by a fragmented opposition and the increasing concentration of political power. The group warned that continued divisions among opposition parties would only strengthen the APC and reduce the chances of presenting Nigerians with a credible alternative.

To advance the initiative, the G-100 announced plans to convene a National Council of Opposition Leaders within the next two weeks. The meeting is expected to bring together prominent opposition politicians, including Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Amaechi, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, among others, to negotiate a common political strategy.

The coalition said the proposed gathering would seek a commitment from opposition leaders to place national interest above personal political ambitions and build a united platform anchored on a common programme and shared vision. It added that discussions would be guided by the principles contained in the Ibadan Declaration adopted in April 2026, with the ultimate goal of producing a single presidential flag bearer for the opposition ahead of the polls.