Presidential hopeful urges opposition unity to rescue Nigeria in 2027 polls

Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a presidential aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has called for a united opposition front as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on the sidelines of the National Opposition Summit in Ibadan at the weekend, the development economist, banker and public policy expert warned that the scale and complexity of Nigeria’s current challenges require a coordinated and collective response beyond the capacity of any single party or individual.

He stressed that unity among opposition forces is no longer optional, but imperative, if Nigerians are to be presented with a credible and viable alternative.

“Nigeria is at a defining moment. The deepening insecurity, the crushing cost of living and the steady erosion of democratic space demand a collective response. This is not about personal ambition, it is about national rescue,” Hayatu-Deen said.

Hayatu-Deen cautioned that continued fragmentation within the opposition would only entrench the status quo and prolong the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.

He therefore urged political leaders to move beyond rhetoric and demonstrate a genuine commitment to collaboration, sacrifice and shared purpose.

At the summit, the former presidential aspirant held consultations with key opposition leaders, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, host of the gathering, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi.

He also engaged with the summit’s conveners, Professor Jerry Gana of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Kashim Imam, signalling growing momentum toward opposition alignment.

Hayatu-Deen further noted that the 2027 elections present a critical opportunity to reset Nigeria’s trajectory, but only if opposition leaders are willing to place national interest above partisan and personal considerations.

“Nigerians are looking for leadership that is empathetic, unifying and capable of delivering real change. That responsibility rests on all of us in the opposition to come together and rise to the occasion,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to the ADC, Hayatu-Deen pledged to work with party leaders, stakeholders and like-minded Nigerians to build a broad-based coalition focused on restoring security, stabilising the economy and rebuilding public trust in democratic institutions.