The push against President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign gained significant momentum as the League of Northern Democrats (LND) officially joined the anti-Tinubu coalition. The LND convener, Dr. Umar Ardo, revealed this decision during an expanded meeting in Abuja on Thursday.
The LND has outlined a series of key resolutions, including a commitment to support the National Opposition Coalition Group, which aims to drive the agenda for a political transition leading up to the 2027 elections. One major decision made by the LND was to explore either merging with an existing political party or establishing a new one. A final decision on this will be made on May 30th.
While reading the meeting communiqué, Dr. Ardo explained that the league had deliberated on various issues, including the approval of its constitution, leadership, and future political strategy. He emphasised that the LND had resolved to focus on the potential creation of a new political party, with a preference for registering a new one over merging with any current party.
The LND’s decision comes after a thorough review of reports from two committees. One committee, led by Governor Lyol Imoke, examined the possibility of fusing with an existing political party. At the same time, the other, chaired by Governor Rotimi Amaechi, explored the option of forming a new party. Both committees presented their findings, concluding that creating a new party would be the best course of action.
Dr. Ardo also addressed the pressing security concerns in northern Nigeria, highlighting the rising poverty levels, unemployment, and insecurity. He noted that the group intends to engage with the 19 northern governors to tackle these issues, which they believe have been worsened by a lack of action from local leadership.
In addition, the LND expressed its disapproval of actions by elected members of the National Assembly who, in violation of Nigeria’s constitution, have switched political parties without facing consequences. The group vowed to mobilise citizens to ensure that lawmakers abide by constitutional provisions, particularly those outlined in Section 68, which mandates that legislators vacate their seats if they switch parties.
This growing coalition signals a significant shift in the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, with northern democrats seeking a more active role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
