The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed that opposition parties are engaged in ongoing discussions to present a joint presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, PDP spokesperson Ini Ememobong, representing the Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC), said opposition leaders are mindful of time constraints and are adjusting their strategies accordingly.
He explained that part of the ongoing discussions includes the possibility of extending timelines within the political process to allow for broader consensus-building.
“The opposition leaders are clearly aware of the pressures of time, which is why one of the demands is an elongation of timelines,” Ememobong said.
He also criticised the current administration, questioning its ability to deliver credible elections.
“When it comes to credible elections based on integrity, this government will fail the test. It will not measure up to the anger and frustration of the Nigerian people,” he added.
Meanwhile, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Salihu Lukman, intensified calls for the resignation or removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan.
Lukman accused Amupitan of failing both integrity and competency tests—claims the electoral body has denied, maintaining that its chairman remains neutral.
“Amupitan should resign or be removed. In today’s public service, he has become persona non grata,” Lukman said, arguing that the INEC chairman has not demonstrated the impartiality expected of an electoral umpire.
“By his actions, his utterances, and the way he conducts public affairs, he undermines the values of integrity in Nigeria,” he added.
When asked whether the ADC would boycott the elections if Amupitan remains in office, Lukman declined to give a definitive answer.
“Participating in elections is our constitutional responsibility as a leading opposition movement. At the appropriate time, we will take a position,” he said, warning that calls for the chairman’s removal would intensify if no action is taken.
Despite the APC controlling 31 states and holding a majority in the National Assembly, Lukman insisted the ruling party lacks grassroots support.
“They may control the governors, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, but they do not control the people,” he said, expressing confidence that the ADC and its allies would prevail in 2027.
