Senate President Godswill Akpabio has cautioned Nigerians against placing hope in opposition coalitions, describing the concept as deceptive and constitutionally flawed within Nigeria’s political system.
Speaking during the House of Representatives Open Week in Abuja, Akpabio said only political parties, not individuals or coalitions, are empowered to contest elections.
“Nigerians, don’t be deceived. Coalition politics is unrealistic. The idea of one person aligning with two political parties is not only unconstitutional, it’s misleading,” he said.
His remarks follow the recent announcement of a grand opposition coalition, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) adopted as the platform for the 2027 presidential race. Former Senate President David Mark was named interim national chairman, and ex-Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola as secretary.
The coalition boasts several political heavyweights, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu, Ireti Kingibe, and Emeka Ihedioha, among others.
But Akpabio dismissed their effort as legally and structurally defective.
He also addressed widespread expectations that lawmakers are meant to carry out infrastructure projects, noting that the primary duty of legislators is lawmaking, not executing roads or buildings.
Meanwhile, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced progress on constitutional amendments, including a landmark provision to reserve 10% of legislative seats for women and 5% for persons with disabilities.
