Opposition Parties Unite to Demand Changes Ahead of 2027 Elections
In a significant move, opposition parties in Nigeria have come together to form a unified front, calling for the resignation of Professor Joash Amupitan as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This demand is part of a broader set of actions aimed at ensuring fair and transparent elections ahead of the 2027 general elections. The opposition has also urged the National Assembly to immediately review the Electoral Act 2026, release detained leading politicians, and extend the deadline for party primaries set by INEC.
These demands were outlined in a communique issued following a National Summit of Opposition Political Parties held in Ibadan on Saturday. The summit brought together various opposition groups to discuss strategies and coordinate efforts in preparation for the upcoming elections.
Allegations of Bias and Partisanship
According to the communique, the call for Amupitan’s resignation stems from allegations of bias and partisanship in favor of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The document states that Nigerians across the country have lost confidence in Amupitan’s ability to ensure neutrality during the 2027 general elections. It further argues that his continued tenure could lead to widespread crisis in the nation.
“This is not just about one person; it’s about the integrity of our democratic process,” the communique emphasized. “His continuous stay in office is vexatious and capable of triggering wide spread crisis in our nation.”
Unified Presidential Candidate
Another key outcome of the summit was the agreement to present a single presidential candidate backed by all opposition parties. This move aims to resist what the opposition perceives as efforts by the APC to establish a one-party state and to fight for the survival of multi-party democracy in Nigeria.
The communique described the APC-led government as oppressive and anti-democratic, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to rescue the nation and safeguard the destiny of over 200 million Nigerians.
Calls for Electoral Reforms
The document also called for immediate review of the Electoral Act 2026 by the National Assembly. The opposition believes that certain sections of the act threaten the sanctity and integrity of the elections and contradict constitutional provisions. They argue that such reforms are essential to ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
Additionally, the communique demanded the immediate release of all leading politicians who have been detained or harassed on bailable offenses. The opposition emphasizes the importance of allowing these individuals to exercise their fundamental rights of participation and inclusivity as Nigerians.
Concerns Over INEC Guidelines
The opposition expressed concerns over the recent guidelines released by INEC, which they view as obstacles deliberately engineered to impose conditions and deadlines on opposition parties. As a result, they have called for an extension of the deadline for party primaries until the end of July 2026.
Recognition of Public Resilience
The summit commended Nigerians for their resilience and readiness to work with opposition parties to free the nation from what they describe as State capture. The opposition acknowledged the support of the Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for hosting this important event.
