2027: South-South Group Backs Opposition Coalition, Calls For Single Presidential Candidate
The South-South Grassroots Mobilisation Movement (SSGMM) has thrown its weight behind ongoing discussions among opposition political parties on the formation of a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling for a transparent process to produce a common presidential candidate.
The movement urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and other interested political stakeholders to prioritise national interest and democratic principles in their efforts to forge a common front.
In a press statement signed by its Secretary, Abieyuwa Festus Odogbo, SSGMM said cooperation among opposition parties could strengthen democratic competition, address shared national challenges and provide Nigerians with a clearer alternative in the forthcoming elections.
The group, however, stressed that any proposed alliance must be built on transparency, inclusiveness, mutual respect and a commitment to the country's national interest.
According to the movement, opposition unity should extend beyond political agreements and individual ambitions to include a comprehensive programme for addressing Nigeria's economic, social and security challenges.
It identified the rising cost of living, unemployment, insecurity, inadequate infrastructure and limited access to quality education, healthcare and economic opportunities as critical issues requiring practical and sustainable solutions.
SSGMM maintained that any coalition seeking to offer Nigerians an alternative government must demonstrate a clear understanding of these challenges and present credible policy proposals capable of improving citizens' living conditions.
The movement called on participating parties to develop a common policy framework covering economic recovery, job creation, national security, affordable education, accessible healthcare, responsible public spending and balanced regional development.
It also emphasised the need for a fair and democratic mechanism for selecting a presidential candidate, resolving disagreements among participating parties and ensuring that all stakeholders have confidence in the process.
The group warned that failure to establish clear rules and an acceptable dispute-resolution mechanism could undermine the unity the proposed coalition seeks to achieve.
SSGMM Warns Against Personal Ambition
The movement urged opposition leaders to place the interests of Nigerians above personal ambition and partisan rivalry, stressing that successful political cooperation requires compromise, trust and a shared commitment to democratic governance.
It argued that a coalition should not be driven solely by opposition to the incumbent administration but must demonstrate its readiness to govern through credible policies, institutional accountability and measurable development targets.
According to SSGMM, Nigerians deserve to know what any proposed coalition intends to achieve, how its policies would be implemented and what mechanisms would be established to ensure that elected officials fulfil their promises.
The organisation further called for meaningful representation of youths, women, workers, traders, farmers and vulnerable communities in the coalition's consultations and policy development.
It said the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians must remain central to any political arrangement seeking to secure a national mandate in 2027.
Group Advocates Credible and Peaceful Elections
On the forthcoming general elections, SSGMM said Nigerians should have the opportunity to assess candidates and political parties based on their records, policy proposals and commitments to national development.
The movement called for a competitive electoral process in which voters could make informed choices without intimidation, electoral inducement or violence.
It also urged political parties to respect democratic procedures and ensure that disagreements arising from coalition negotiations were resolved through lawful and peaceful means.
As a grassroots organisation focused on political awareness, civic participation and democratic accountability, SSGMM pledged to continue encouraging citizens across the South-South region to participate actively in the democratic process.
The group maintained that the responsibility of political parties was to present credible candidates and workable policy alternatives, while voters must be allowed to freely determine the country's political direction through the ballot box.
Reaffirming its support for constructive opposition cooperation, the movement urged the ADC, PDP, SDP, APM, PRP and other interested stakeholders to pursue discussions on a common programme and a transparent process for choosing a presidential candidate.
It concluded that Nigeria's future depended on serious policy debates, accountable leadership, credible elections and a government responsive to the needs and aspirations of its citizens.
The statement was signed by Abieyuwa Festus Odogbo, Secretary of the South-South Grassroots Mobilisation Movement (SSGMM).
For Further Enquiries:
Organisation: South-South Grassroots Mobilisation Movement (SSGMM)
Contact Person: Abieyuwa Festus Odogbo, Secretary
Telephone: 09043187477
Email: southsouthgrassrootsmobilisati@gmail.com
