Some members of the northern political elite have called on the coalition of opposition leaders led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to consider forming a new political party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The northern elite, led by the former governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, said it was better for the coalition to form a new party and avoid the pitfalls of joining an existing one.
Speaking under the aegis of the League of Northern Democrats, the elite made the appeal in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja.
The NLD, which comprises former governors, senators, academics and business leaders, is positioning itself as a key player in mobilising opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Convener of the League, Dr. Umar Ardo, disclosed that after wide consultations and a detailed review of the available political pathways, the LND resolved that a new party would serve the coalition better.
“Following an exhaustive internal review and critical evaluation of the strategic options available to the National Opposition Coalition Group, we have unanimously resolved that registering a new party offers the best chance for success in 2027,” Ardo stated.
According to him, fusing into existing platforms like the African Democratic Congress or the Social Democratic Party poses risks of structural conflict, leadership disputes, and legal complications.
Citing the example of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Ardo warned of the pitfalls associated with hurried political mergers.
He referenced the NNPP’s troubled alliance with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State before the 2023 elections due to disagreements over leadership and candidacy.
Ardo also dismissed concerns about time constraints, saying that the opposition had ample time to register and build a credible party before the next election cycle.
“Nigeria’s legal and democratic framework allows for this, provided the coalition begins the process now,” he said.
Beyond structure and timing, the group stressed the importance of ideological clarity.
“This movement is not merely about seizing power. It’s about national rebirth — a fresh start anchored in values, principles, and competence,” Ardo added.
Emphasising the urgency of the moment, the group concluded with a call for decisive action.
“The challenges of our country demand bold decisions, not expedient compromises. Let us build, not borrow. Let us lead, not follow,” the statement read.
