Single Opposition Candidate: Lukman-led Coalition Meets Cardinal Onaiyekan, To Adopt Framework On Nov 9

Leaders of opposition political parties under the G100 Coalition have met with Catholic cleric, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, as part of ongoing efforts to unite opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The meeting, held at the Cardinal’s residence on Thursday, October 29, 2026, provided an opportunity for the coalition leaders, comprising national chairmen and national secretaries of various political parties, to brief him on their efforts to establish a united opposition front and present Nigerians with an alternative leadership platform.

In a statement signed by Salihu Moh. Lukman on behalf of the coalition parties, the delegation disclosed that work had been concluded on three major policy documents designed to guide the coalition’s activities and provide direction for a possible government emerging from the proposed cooperation.

The documents include the National Covenant for Democratic Renewal, which outlines the coalition’s guiding principles; the Framework for Opposition Unity, which establishes the structure and mechanisms for cooperation among opposition parties; and the National Reform Programme, which sets out the policy priorities of a government built on the coalition’s proposed partnership.

According to the statement, the coalition is working towards the formal adoption of the documents at its Second Summit scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2026. The summit is expected to bring together all political parties participating in the coalition for the public endorsement and unveiling of the working papers.

During the meeting, Cardinal Onaiyekan commended the opposition leaders for their efforts and expressed support for initiatives aimed at promoting unity among opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

He reportedly emphasised that a strong opposition is important for sustaining Nigeria’s democratic traditions, noting that citizens should have credible choices through which they can determine their future and leadership.

The Cardinal also stressed the importance of competent, honest and compassionate leadership in addressing the numerous challenges confronting Nigerians, particularly those affecting citizens’ welfare and their ability to live decent lives.

The delegation also briefed him on the coalition’s progress, including efforts to attract more political parties and develop mechanisms to address potential disagreements that could undermine the proposed alliance.

It said the coalition remained committed to rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s leadership through a new vision and renewed focus on citizens’ welfare, national security and trust in governance.

The leaders further expressed appreciation for Cardinal Onaiyekan’s longstanding advocacy for justice and compassion, requesting his continued prayers for the success of their initiative.

The statement added that leaders of the coalition would, in the coming weeks, engage other prominent Nigerians and diplomatic missions as part of efforts to broaden support for the opposition unity project.

The proposed November 9 summit is expected to mark another major step in the coalition’s efforts to establish a common framework for opposition cooperation ahead of the 2027 general elections.