The National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has warned that opposition parties cannot afford to be complacent as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
Baba-Ahmed made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Wednesday.
He alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was not innocent of what he described as “playing dirty” in politics.
According to him, several opposition parties are also facing internal and legal challenges that could affect their ability to participate effectively in the 2027 elections.
“The APC is not innocent when it comes to playing dirty. We, the opposition, don’t sleep with both eyes closed.”
Baba-Ahmed said the emerging opposition coalition involved about eight or nine political parties, with five or six facing court cases.
He added that some parties had also become factionalised, creating uncertainty over which factions or candidates would eventually be recognised for the election.
“Parties have become factionalized; you just never know whether some candidates will be on the ballot or not, or if their particular faction of the party is not recognized at some stage between now and then.”
PRP says it has addressed its own challenges
The PRP chairman said his party had taken lessons from the difficulties affecting some opposition groups.
He explained that the PRP had opted to put forward a candidate it believed could withstand potential legal challenges.
“It was better to put forward only a candidate we are sure can survive all the legal hurdles. So, we think these issues are behind us now.”
Baba-Ahmed also said opposition parties needed to work together and protect one another as they prepare for the 2027 election.
He said the emerging coalition was intended to improve the collective capacity of opposition parties to challenge the APC.
Arise News reported that Baba-Ahmed said the coalition was working on a common identity and policy priorities, including issues such as insecurity, poverty, economic management, youth opportunities and corruption.
The PRP chairman’s comments come amid continuing political realignments among opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
