Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a former presidential aide, has called for a merger of smaller opposition parties in Nigeria to build a stronger political force capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Obono-Obla, speaking on Sparkling FM’s Let’s Talk Nigeria programme, emphasized the importance of reducing fragmentation among opposition groups.
“We need fewer but stronger parties,” he said while advocating for a merger rather than mere alliances among opposition forces.
He stated that such a united opposition is essential to creating a competitive political landscape, as seen in 2015 when parties like the CPC came together to form the APC, successfully challenging the then-ruling government.
Commenting on the recent alignment efforts between Peter Obi and Musa Kwankwaso, Obono-Obla dismissed their attempts as “media hype.”
He also expressed his disagreement with those who claim that it is too early to discuss President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, affirming that such political discourse is vital for national development.
“It’s not too early to begin talking about the 2027 presidential election. Remember, there is freedom of speech.
“It shows political development and that our people are concerned about governance. Note that politics is an everyday discourse.
“Talking about 2027 is akin to anyone talking about all other issues,” he stated.
Obono-Obla urged opposition leaders to remain consistent and avoid undermining their positions by secretly collaborating with the ruling government.