Ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, a northern political group, the League of Northern Democrats (LND), is building a national coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The group, led by former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, is seeking support from prominent southern leaders, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Head of State Yakubu Gowon.
The Convener of the LND, Dr. Umar Ardo, announced on January 5, 2025, that the group plans to transform into a political party named the League of National Democrats. Ardo stated, “This new political platform seeks to provide a credible alternative by institutionalising meritocracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring the emergence of leaders with proven competence and integrity.”
The initiative has already gained the attention of Obasanjo, who suggested that the group adopt a national outlook. “Yes, you have identified your group as the League of Northern Democrats, but how I wish you call your group National League of Democrats, because where you come from should not be a problem,” Obasanjo told a 20-member LND delegation led by Shekarau during a meeting at his Abeokuta residence. He also expressed his willingness to serve as the group’s patron.
General Gowon echoed similar sentiments, advising the group to broaden its scope and include leaders from southern Nigeria.
Building Alliances Across the South
The LND has intensified consultations with southern political leaders in the South-East, South-South, and South-West. According to LND spokesperson Dr. Ladan Salihu, discussions with influential figures, including former governors, senators, and ministers, are ongoing.
“We are in constant, almost daily contact with respected southern leaders because they share our vision of rescuing Nigeria,” Salihu said. He added that politicians in the South-East are considering forming a League of Southern Democrats, while their counterparts in the South-West have expressed interest in joining the LND or establishing a similar platform.
While declining to name the southern politicians involved, Salihu emphasized that the movement is a serious effort to create a unified platform. “This is not just a rhetorical platform; it’s a serious movement based on real action,” he noted.
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Opposition Maneuvers and APC’s Response
The LND’s initiative is part of broader efforts by opposition leaders to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai are reportedly exploring options to form a new party or adopt an existing one for a coalition.
In response, the APC has dismissed the emerging alliances as no threat to its hold on power. APC National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim said, “The APC and the President are very much aware of the shenanigans of the opposition. But it will be almost impossible for someone from outside, particularly an outsider who has previously failed the country, to think of defeating the incumbent.”
Ibrahim expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s chances for re-election, pointing to the anticipated benefits of his administration’s economic reforms by 2026 and 2027. “I assure you, the APC will not falter or be caught napping,” he said.
PDP’s Position
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also brushed off the LND’s efforts, asserting that no coalition can defeat the APC without its involvement. PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said, “We saw it in 2023. The Labour Party, NNPP, and what came out of it? All forms of coalition are welcome to defeat the All Progressives Congress, but characters like Shekarau should first ask themselves if they are credible and consistent.”
Osadolor criticized Shekarau’s leadership, arguing that he lacks the capacity to drive meaningful change. “Shekarau himself knows that his position is over and above his weight, and he lacks the capacity to really push anything significant,” he stated.
Towards 2027
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, political realignments are gaining momentum. The LND’s transformation into a national platform and its efforts to unite opposition forces signal a growing determination to challenge the APC’s dominance. Whether these alliances will succeed remains to be seen, but the coming months promise intense political activity and high-stakes negotiations.