The opposition coalition is steadily organizing as former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and ex-Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke have been assigned to lead two committees that will decide whether to form a new political party or merge into an existing one.
This update was shared by Dr. Umar Ardo, Convener of the League of Northern Democrats (LND), during a press briefing after an expanded meeting of the coalition held in Abuja on Thursday.
Among those present were notable northern political leaders including former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, alongside other key figures from the region.
Prominent opposition leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai are spearheading the coalition’s efforts.
Dr. Ardo explained that Imoke is chairing the committee examining the possibility of integrating with an established party, while Amaechi heads the panel exploring the option of registering a new political party.
He noted that a final decision regarding the coalition’s direction will be made by May 30.
“We have resolved to support the National Opposition Coalition Group as it prepares for the 2027 political transition,” Ardo said.
“Part of our task is to engage in discussions about whether to establish a new political platform or align with an existing party.”
He added that two committees were set up to explore these options, with Imoke leading the team considering a merger, and Amaechi leading the one focusing on forming a new party, where Ardo serves as secretary.
Ardo also mentioned that political platforms like the Action Democratic Party (ADP) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) are being considered should forming a new party prove unfeasible.
“Governor El-Rufai informed us that SDP has expressed interest in merging. The committees will finalize their recommendations by May 30, deciding among ADP, SDP, or a new party formation. The LND supports this timeline,” he said.
Furthermore, Dr. Ardo revealed plans to address northern governors about the region’s persistent challenges, including poverty, insecurity, and unemployment.
“There is widespread agreement that the inactivity of the 19 northern governors is a critical issue,” he stated. “We intend to mobilize the North and all Nigerians to hold the government and lawmakers accountable to the Nigerian Constitution.”