The G-100 has announced that the summit of opposition political parties originally scheduled for August 18, 2026, will now take place on August 31. This decision aims to provide participating parties with more time to engage in consultations following the National Peace Summit.
Key figures in attendance will include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Anambra State governor Peter Obi, who represent the African Democratic Congress and the Nigeria Democratic Congress, respectively. The G-100 is advocating for a united opposition front to present a single presidential candidate against President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress in the upcoming 2027 elections.
In a statement released on Friday by Salihu Lukman, a former chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, the G-100 emphasized that a divided opposition would struggle to challenge Tinubu effectively. The group noted that the postponement was agreed upon after discussions with six opposition parties and members of the House of Representatives’ minority caucus, who collectively determined that the summit would yield better results if held after the National Peace Summit on August 18.
The G-100 expressed optimism that the additional time would allow for the refinement of proposals and frameworks to be discussed at the upcoming meeting. They highlighted the productive nature of recent consultations, stating, "We have been particularly encouraged by the seriousness with which the parties have approached these conversations and by the energy behind the deliberations."
While acknowledging existing differences among the parties, the G-100 emphasized that these have not hindered constructive discussions on potential cooperation. The group conveyed confidence that the August 31 summit could lead to significant outcomes, stating, "The quality of the conversations gives us confidence that the August 31 Summit can be both substantive and consequential."
As the pressure mounts on opposition parties to clarify their political strategies ahead of the 2027 elections, this summit is expected to serve as a crucial platform for collaboration and a more structured approach to opposition politics. Further details regarding the summit's programme and venue will be announced in due course.
Sources
- Punch Newspapers Original article
