2027: Utomi-Led MCE Panel Shortlists 7 Opposition Parties, Adopts Power-Sharing Model For Coalition
ABUJA, NIGERIA — Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE) has officially commenced high-level tactical engagements to form a formidable opposition coalition capable of presenting a consensus presidential candidate.
In a statement released on Thursday, September 3, 2026, MCE Media Coordinator Comrade James Ezema revealed that the group’s political commission has shortlisted seven opposition political parties and their presidential candidates for final engagements and endorsement.
The commission is chaired by Prof. Pat Utomi, a renowned political economist and Convener of the Big Tent Political Movement.
The panel has been reviewing party profiles, ideologies, electoral programs, and the curriculum vitae (CVs) of various contenders since July to select the most credible alternative for the Nigerian electorate.
Unveiling and Next Steps
The MCE announced that the names and profiles of the shortlisted parties and candidates will be formally unveiled at a major press conference next week. The event will also outline the commission’s work plan, modalities, and working sub-committees.
To avoid the pitfalls of past alliances, the MCE has adopted a concrete power-sharing implementation model. This framework builds on the historic declaration made during the Ibadan opposition summit in April 2026. The coalescing parties are expected to sign a legally binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by November 2026.
Broad Alliances and High-Profile Backing
The MCE is expanding its negotiation pool by bringing in external stakeholders, including the G-100 Nigerians, to ensure an inclusive process.
A star-studded team of prominent pro-democracy advocates, civic leaders, and politicians will lead the tactical negotiations alongside Prof. Utomi. The commission’s members include:
Hadjia Maryam Inna Ciroma
Mrs. Modupe Adelaja
Comrade Solomon Dalung
Hon. Uche Onyeagocha
Dr. Sam Amadi
Dr. Mike Iginni
Obongawan Barbara
Etim James
Veteran Olawale Okunniyi
Dr. Adum Ter Alex
Saving Nigerian Democracy
The MCE emphasized that its intervention is pro-people and pan-Nigerian, aimed at establishing an electoral balance of power to save the country from looming anarchy.
The group clarified that it does not intend to impose a candidate, but rather to foster genuine political competition.
“Democracy is best protected when citizens have genuine choices, institutions are credible, political competition exists, and the electoral process is sufficiently robust to reflect the will of the people,” the statement read.
To prepare its base, the MCE has concluded plans to host a crucial leadership retreat for its members, allies, and volunteers to assign roles and intensify strategies aimed at making the people’s votes count in 2027.
