A new coalition, named the “Coalition of Concerned Political Parties,” was established on December 6, 2023, by seven opposition political parties.
This alliance aims to bolster democracy within the country and was officially formed during a meeting at the National Secretariat of the Social Democratic Party in Abuja.
Comprising the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, Social Democratic Party, Peoples Allied Movement, New Nigeria Peoples Party, Young Progressives Party, and Zenith Labour Party, the coalition reflects a unified effort among diverse political entities.
Concerns about the potential consolidation of power in a one-party state were voiced by the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, during a meeting with the Inter-party Advisory Council in November. He emphasized the importance of opposition unity to prevent such a scenario.
Addressing the prevailing instability in the country, the coalition called upon the judicial system to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and resist political and executive interference.
Shehu Gabam, the National Chairman of the SDP, highlighted the critical role of the judiciary as the last bastion of hope for the common man.
“We are worried about the level of instability the country is going through. If you look at recent developments in Zamfara, Nasarawa, Kano, and Plateau states, it is very clear that the judiciary must exercise extreme caution with some of its decisions.
“The judiciary should strengthen their conviction towards delivering judgments that can stand the test of time. They should not allow we politicians to infiltrate their rank, sanity, and capacity to deliver judgments that are internationally sound and can be recognised.”.
The SDP Chairman, however, said that the coalition is not for a merger or against the Inter-Party Advisory Council.
Also speaking at the meeting, the acting National Secretary of the PDP, Setonji Koshoedo, who represented the party’s acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, stated that the coalition will offer a strong opposition.
On his part, the national chairman of the ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, said the idea behind the coalition “is to strengthen our democracy. We have seen that people in government are trying to stiffen viable opposition.
