Moghalu calls for unified opposition, electoral reforms ahead of 2027 elections

Former presidential candidate, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, has urged Nigeria’s opposition parties to put aside personal ambitions and forge a credible alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He made this call as a guest on the Diaspora Dialogues podcast, hosted by Professors Farooq Kperogi, Moses Ochonu, and Dr. Osmund Agbo, on Saturday, August 30, 2025.

Speaking on the theme “The State of the Opposition ahead of 2027,” Moghalu argued that while complete unity may be difficult, there is a strong possibility—up to 75 percent—that opposition forces could rally behind a single candidate under an umbrella coalition. He stressed that the success of such an effort would depend on overcoming ego clashes, regional ambitions, and the replication of the coalition strategy that ousted the PDP in 2015.

Moghalu criticised Nigeria’s political culture as one that prioritizes ethnic and tribal loyalties over competence, describing the system as “not a true democracy, but a contest among elites for power.” He noted that poverty continues to be weaponised by politicians to secure votes and urged citizens to demand accountability and better governance outcomes.

On reforms, the former Central Bank deputy governor proposed a one-term, six-year presidency with a rotational arrangement among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. According to him, such a system would strengthen national cohesion while reducing the waste and instability that come with constant electioneering.

He also emphasised the need for urgent electoral reforms, warning that without an independent INEC, the 2027 elections risk being compromised regardless of opposition unity. “The opposition must go beyond press statements,” he said, advocating for civil disobedience and grassroots mobilization to demand a fair process.

Moghalu acknowledged modest progress under the current administration, including efforts to stabilize the foreign exchange market and simplify taxation. However, he maintained that inflation and persistent economic hardship remain serious obstacles. He identified electricity infrastructure and long-term national planning as critical pillars for unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.

Reflecting on his own political journey, Moghalu recalled how his votes were “stolen” in the 2019 election due to lack of resources to protect polling units. He has since stepped away from partisan politics but continues to champion reforms. He urged Nigerians in the diaspora to intensify advocacy for electoral reform and diaspora voting rights, warning that “democracy cannot thrive if citizens remain passive.”

The podcast hosts commended Moghalu’s insights, with Professor Kperogi noting that the opposition’s challenge lies not only in uniting but in presenting a clear vision that inspires hope beyond mere discontent with the ruling APC.

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