Presidency Dismisses Ibadan Declaration, Says Opposition ‘Standing on Sinking Ground’

The Presidency has criticised the recent Ibadan declaration by opposition political actors, describing their coalition efforts as weak and lacking substance ahead of the 2027 general election.

 

Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, said opposition parties are “standing on sinking ground,” while the current administration remains “on the rock of competence.”

 

Ejes Gist News reports that Dare made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television, in response to the Ibadan declaration, where opposition figures signalled plans to present a unified presidential candidate.

 

He dismissed the gathering as a convergence of “recycled politicians,” arguing that many of the individuals involved have previously held positions as ministers, governors, or long-standing political actors without demonstrating new policy direction.

 

According to him, a review of their recent records in both executive and legislative roles does not indicate fresh ideas capable of addressing Nigeria’s current challenges.

 

Dare maintained that while opposition groups are free to organise and field candidates, such actions do not diminish what he described as ongoing governance efforts by the current administration.

 

Also Read: Peter Obi Weighs In as NBC’s New Directive to Broadcast Organisations Raises Dust, Sparks Controversy

 

“They are free to field five or even seven presidential candidates. But as I said, they are standing on sinking ground,” he stated.

He added that the democratic system allows for multiple political alignments and strategies, but insisted that the presence of opposition coalitions does not alter the position of the government in office.

 

Dare further said that the Tinubu administration continues to focus on delivering measurable outcomes, asserting that governance remains active despite political realignments ahead of the next election cycle.

 

The Ibadan declaration is part of broader consultations among opposition leaders seeking to consolidate support and avoid fragmentation, a factor widely seen as influencing previous electoral outcomes.