The founding National Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy, Prof. Udenta Udenta, has criticised emerging political coalitions ahead of the 2027 general election, saying they appear driven more by the pursuit of power than by clear ideological commitments.
Professor Udenta the founding National Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), said the emerging alliances around President Bola Tinubu and opposition parties reflect elite political bargaining but offer little evidence of distinct policy alternatives for Nigerians.
He acknowledged that coalition-building was part of democratic politics but warned that the process must go beyond political calculations to address citizens’ interests.
“Democracy is conversation,” he said, arguing that political alliances should promote dialogue, inclusion and national consensus.
Udenta also identified the lack of clear ideological differences among Nigeria’s major political parties as a major weakness, saying voters need competing visions on economic development, poverty reduction and the role of government.
He warned that without such alternatives; political competition would remain centred on personalities rather than ideas.
The political analyst proposed a broad-based platform, which he called a Sovereign Commission, to bring political parties, presidential candidates and other stakeholders together before the 2027 election.
He said the initiative would seek commitments from political leaders to protect national unity, ensure peaceful elections and prevent post-election tensions.
“You don't wait for that day after to occur,” Udenta said, urging political leaders to begin discussions before the polls.
He proposed town hall meetings and public consultations involving politicians, students, professionals and other citizens, adding that the platform should be established before the end of the year.
Although Udenta declared his personal support for NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, he said the proposed initiative should accommodate Nigerians with different political preferences.
He stressed that political differences should not prevent leaders and citizens from working together to protect the country's future
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