Ahead of the 2027 general elections, prominent northern political figures, including former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, have urged the coalition of opposition forces led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to abandon the idea of merging with existing parties and instead form a fresh political platform. The leaders believe that establishing a new party is the most viable route to challenge the re-election ambitions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The call was made under the banner of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), a coalition made up of influential former governors, senators, academics, and business leaders across the northern region. In a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday, the LND insisted that the creation of a new political party is critical if the opposition coalition hopes to avoid the structural pitfalls that have plagued previous mergers.
Dr. Umar Ardo, the convener of the League and a respected political strategist, revealed that after extensive consultations and strategic reviews, the group reached a unanimous decision. According to him, forming a new party offers the best opportunity for the opposition bloc to present a united front and execute a coordinated campaign strategy ahead of 2027. He stated that existing political parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or the Social Democratic Party (SDP) may pose internal challenges, including potential leadership tussles, legal hurdles, and ideological conflicts.
Ardo referenced the internal crisis within the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) during its alliance with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in the build-up to the 2023 elections, as a cautionary tale. He warned that hasty political alignments often lead to disputes over control, candidacy, and direction, ultimately weakening the opposition’s position.
Addressing concerns about time constraints, Dr. Ardo noted that the Nigerian electoral and legal system provides sufficient room for the formation and registration of new political parties before the next electoral cycle. He encouraged the coalition to commence preparations without delay, stressing that time, though limited, remains on their side if the process is initiated immediately.
The group emphasised that the objective is not just political power, but national rejuvenation driven by strong ideals and visionary leadership. Ardo maintained that the movement is rooted in the desire for a new political culture built on integrity, capacity, and a clear commitment to national development. “This is not about desperation or opportunism. It’s about offering Nigerians a genuine alternative, one that reflects values and not just ambition,” he stated.
The League concluded its message with a rallying call for swift and courageous political action. They urged Atiku and other key figures in the opposition to embrace a new beginning rather than recycle outdated alliances. “The scale of the challenges facing Nigeria today requires bold, forward-thinking decisions. We must create something new, not inherit old battles. Let us build, not borrow. Let us lead, not follow,” the statement concluded.
As political realignments continue to take shape across the country, this push by northern elites could significantly influence the direction and strategy of Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
