The proposal for a merger among major opposition political parties in anticipation of the 2027 general elections has generated mixed reactions.
The suggestion, put forth by former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the last presidential election, has not been universally embraced. While the Labour Party (LP) appears hesitant about the idea, the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP) has expressed support for the initiative.
Drawing parallels to the successful merger of opposition parties in 2015 that led to the victory of former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku contends that a similar strategy is needed to dislodge the APC in 2027. He voiced concerns about the increasing dominance of the APC, warning that failure to challenge the ruling party’s trajectory could undermine democracy.
Supporting Atiku’s stance, a communication strategist, Murkthar Suleiman, believes that a robust merger among opposition parties could potentially unseat the APC and its leader, Tinubu, in the upcoming elections. Suleiman argues that a consolidated opposition creates a formidable force, keeping the incumbent party vigilant and responsive.
However, obstacles to the proposed merger are anticipated, primarily arising from self-interest among potential candidates. The rejection of merger talks by presidential candidates from the Labour Party (LP) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the lead-up to the 2023 election is cited as a precedent that might hinder collaboration.
Suleiman underscores the importance of strategic considerations in selecting candidates and running mates, emphasizing the need for a balance between regional representation and the party’s established identity. He acknowledges the challenges but emphasizes the importance of a united front to challenge the ruling party effectively.
On the other hand, a rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, criticizes Atiku’s call for a merger as self-serving and questions its feasibility, citing potential interference by APC leader Tinubu. Adeyanju views the proposal as lacking genuine intent and suggests that the opposition’s failure to unite in previous elections reflects a broader issue of ego and unwillingness to collaborate.
As the debate on a potential merger unfolds, the complexities of selecting candidates, running mates, and party names emerge as crucial factors that could shape the success or failure of such a coalition.
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