Obi calls for opposition unity to address nation’s challenges
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has formally declared three seats in the red chamber vacant following the death of some members of the 10th Senate.
He announced the vacancy during plenary yesterday, describing the development as a tragic loss to the National Assembly and the country at large.
Meanwhile, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for a unified opposition alliance to address Nigeria’s escalating security and economic challenges.
According to Akpabio, the vacancies affect Enugu North, Nasarawa North and Rivers South-East.
“These unfortunate events necessitate the conduct of midterm elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill the affected seats,” he said.
Citing the Constitution, the Senate president stated that the declaration was in line with legal requirements, paving the way for fresh elections to restore full representation in the affected constituencies.
He consequently directed INEC to conduct by-elections within the constitutionally stipulated timeframe.
“In compliance with constitutional provisions, INEC is hereby mandated to conduct by-elections to fill these vacancies within the stipulated timeframe, which is approximately 30 days from the date of this declaration,” Akpabio said, while paying tribute to the deceased lawmakers, offering prayers for the repose of their souls.
The Senate adjourned plenary until April 21 to observe the Easter break.
SPEAKING in Kano yesterday, Obi characterised the nation’s current state as a “critical stage,” asserting that systemic issues such as unemployment, declining public trust, and persistent insecurity require more than political rhetoric.
“The challenges we face—economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and declining public trust—require more than rhetoric,” Obi stated. “They require deliberate collaboration, disciplined leadership and a shared commitment to national progress.”
This call for unity follows a significant shift in the political landscape. On Monday, the former Governor of Kano State and 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The transition took place at a major gathering in Kano, where Kwankwaso was received by a coalition of prominent opposition figures, including ADC National Chairman, David Mark, alongside Aminu Tambuwal and Rotimi Amaechi.
Obi, who attended the event at Kwankwaso’s invitation, described the move as a foundational step towards “rescuing and rebuilding” Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He urged political actors to transcend ethnic, religious and regional divisions, emphasising that the objective of such an alliance must extend beyond electoral victory.
As the ADC positions itself as a central platform for opposition interests ahead of the 2027 general elections, the gathering is viewed as the start of a formidable coalition.
Obi insisted that the challenges confronting the country necessitate a shift towards politics driven by competence and character to effectively prioritise the national interest.
DAILY post
