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A chieftain of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Chief Asukewe Ikoawaji, has urged opposition parties to put aside personal interests and unite ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the effort as a national rescue mission rather than a political contest.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE News on Monday, Ikoawaji said no opposition party could successfully challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) without working together.
“No one can do it alone.”
He said the country’s challenges demand collective action, arguing that opposition leaders should prioritise Nigeria’s future over personal political ambitions.
“If we are doing it for Nigerians, we should see it as a rescue mission.”
Ikoawaji stated that many opposition figures have previously served as governors and public office holders, saying the focus should now be on rescuing the country rather than seeking power for its own sake.
According to him, the APC’s victory over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015 was only possible because opposition parties united behind a common objective.
“That is how APC was able to unseat the then PDP government.”
He emphasized that opposition parties must also examine their own shortcomings instead of directing all criticism at the ruling party.
“Opposition need to work on themselves and know that this is a rescue mission. It’s not a mission to enrich themselves.”
The NDC chieftain alleged that some opposition leaders were more interested in political positions than serving Nigerians, warning that such an approach would weaken efforts to build a credible alternative government.
“Some of the opposition party don’t have the interest of Nigerians at heart.”
He maintained that political parties should exist to provide leadership and solutions to national problems, not merely to occupy positions.
“You don’t register a political party for the purpose of registering a political party.”
Ikoawaji expressed confidence that a united opposition would be capable of defeating the APC in the next general election.
“If opposition decide to come together today, I can assure you one thing. In 2027, there will be no APC.”
He also urged political leaders to focus on the legacy they would leave behind, saying history ultimately remembers leaders for the impact they make on society.
“Nobody will remember you of how much you save. People can only remember you of how much impact you made.”
Ojo Triumph
