A group of opposition politicians, civil society activists and political stakeholders has formed a coalition to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The group, known as the **Opposition Coalition and Civil Society Alliance for Tinubu 2027 (OCCSAT ’27)**, was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday following weeks of consultations among its members.
Among those involved are opposition spokesperson Mark Adebayo, Emeka Benjamin Igwe, a steering committee member of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), former presidential candidates, former political party leaders and representatives of civil society organisations.
Adebayo and Igwe were named co-conveners of the coalition, while Comrade Mohammed Abdulrazaq emerged as national publicity secretary.
Other officials appointed include Hajia Farida Yusuf, a grassroots politician and women mobilisation leader from Kebbi State, who was named National Director of Women Committee; Malam Muhammad Yahaya, National Director of Voter Education and Sensitisation; Madam Lydia Olorunfemi, National Treasurer; and Comrade George Hyamber, National Director of Finance.
Comrade Olufemi Lawson of the Campaign for Democracy was appointed National Director of Labour and Civil Society Relations, while Mr Danesi Momoh became National Director of Contact and Mobilisation. Hajia Rukayya Musa Sangari was appointed Deputy National Secretary.
The coalition said it was created because of divisions within the opposition ahead of the 2027 elections, arguing that the inability of opposition parties to agree on a single candidate had weakened their chances of defeating Tinubu.
In a statement at the inauguration, the group said the fragmentation of opposition forces had reduced the possibility of a strong challenge against the president.
“Without a united front and deliberate strategic action, the opposition stands no chance against a seasoned political figure like President Bola Tinubu,” the coalition said.
The group also acknowledged the economic and security challenges facing the country but said the government’s reform measures required time to produce results.
“We understand that there are challenges in the country, particularly in security and the economy, but they are being tackled. Any policy with lasting impact has no quick fixes,” it said.
OCCSAT ’27 said it would continue to scrutinise government policies while also supporting what it described as the administration’s reform agenda.
The coalition commended President Tinubu’s intervention in the Oyo kidnapping incident, which it said helped secure the release of victims without additional loss of lives. It also praised the efforts of Nigeria’s armed forces and security agencies.
The group announced plans to hold a national strategic engagement retreat in August in Keffi, Nasarawa State, with more than 1,000 delegates expected from participating organisations.
