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Several opposition parties in Nigeria — including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party Nigeria (LP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) — have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to turn the country into a one-party state, warning that such a development would pose a serious threat to democracy.
The allegation was contained in a joint communiqué issued after a national summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan. The statement, dubbed the “Ibadan Declaration,” was signed by leaders of more than 10 political parties.
In the communiqué, the opposition groups described Nigeria as being under the grip of what they called an oppressive and anti-democratic APC-led government. They stressed the need for urgent collective action to safeguard the country and protect its democratic structure.
The parties vowed to resist any attempt to impose a one-party system and reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining a multi-party democracy. They also dismissed claims that the ruling party could push for Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emerge as the sole candidate in the 2027 presidential election, insisting they would actively participate and field candidates across all positions.
As part of their strategy, the opposition bloc revealed plans to unite behind a single presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, saying the move would strengthen their chances of unseating the ruling party and addressing the country’s challenges.
They also passed a vote of no confidence in the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Ojo Amupitan, accusing him of bias in favour of the APC. According to them, allowing him to oversee the 2027 elections could spark a crisis due to declining public trust in the electoral body’s neutrality.
The parties further called on the National Assembly of Nigeria to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026, arguing that certain provisions weaken electoral integrity and contradict constitutional principles.
They also demanded the release of politicians allegedly detained over bailable offences, describing such actions as violations of democratic rights and political participation.
In addition, the opposition criticised recent guidelines issued by INEC, claiming they were deliberately designed to disadvantage opposition parties. They urged the commission to extend the deadline for party primaries to the end of July 2026.
Despite their concerns, the parties commended Nigerians for their resilience and thanked Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, and residents of the state for hosting what they described as a significant and historic gathering.
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