A chieftain of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, in Enugu State, Ray Kene Ogbodo, has backed the position of the party's presidential candidate, Donald Duke, and National Chairman, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed on the proposed coalition of opposition political parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
DAILY POST recalls that days ago, PRP confirmed that it was disposed to a coalition by opposition political parties.
Speaking on the development, Ogbodo, who is the Enugu State PRP governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections, said the future of Nigerians should be paramount.
He described the willingness to explore democratic cooperation while protecting the PRP's identity as an important contribution to the national debate on opposition unity.
“Nigeria needs political cooperation founded on shared values, credible leadership, and a clear programme for national renewal.
A coalition should be about the future of Nigerians, not merely the political survival or ambitions of individual politicians,” Ogbodo stated through his media aide, Hon. Don Victor.
He welcomed Donald Duke's declaration that he would respect a democratically agreed consensus presidential candidate while emphasising the importance of developing a common national vision before deciding on political arrangements.
Ogbodo also supported Dr. Baba-Ahmed's insistence that the PRP would not surrender its political identity or abandon the principles upon which the party was established.
“I support cooperation without political surrender, unity without loss of identity, and collective action without sacrificing principles.
The PRP's commitment to social justice, equality, accountable governance, and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians must remain central to any political understanding,” he added.
The former 2023 Enugu governorship candidate said the coalition debate should focus on Nigeria's pressing challenges, including economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, poverty, corruption, and the protection of democratic institutions.
He maintained that opposition parties should demonstrate how cooperation would produce practical solutions rather than simply announce an electoral alliance.
“The real question is not only who will lead a coalition, but what that coalition intends to deliver. Nigerians deserve a credible programme for economic recovery, institutional reform, national security, and shared prosperity,” he stated.
Ogbodo further expressed concern over reports of intimidation, restrictions on opposition political activities and electoral violence, and calling on all political parties and security agencies to uphold the constitutional rights of citizens.
He stressed that political cooperation should include a commitment to peaceful campaigns, credible elections, transparent electoral processes, and respect for the people's democratic choices.
He political leaders involved in coalition discussions to demonstrate transparency, mutual respect, and a willingness to place national interest above personal ambition.
“Nigeria's future is bigger than any candidate, political party, or coalition.
"Whatever political arrangements emerge ahead of 2027 must strengthen democracy, protect the people's interests, and offer Nigerians a credible vision for a better future," Ogbodo further stated.
2027 presidency: Nigeria's future, challenges should decide coalition decision - Ogbodo