By Salihu Ali, Kano
Former Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, has called for the formation of a strong, party-based coalition among Nigeria’s opposition political parties to strengthen democratic competition and national stability.
Speaking in Kano to mark his 70th birthday, Shekarau explained that his vision of a coalition is one built around political parties rather than individual ambitions.
He recalled the successful 2012–2013 merger that produced the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the former ANPP, ACN, CPC, and a faction of APGA, noting that such unity of purpose is essential to Nigeria’s political progress.
“I do not believe in individual coalition,” Shekarau said. “What we did in 2012 and 2013 with the merger of the major opposition parties was the true coalition. When individuals move from one party to another in pursuit of ambition, that’s not coalition, that’s defection.”
Shekarau, who is also a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said the PDP remains the most enduring political platform in Nigeria since the return to democracy in 1999.
“Whatever you say about the PDP, it is the only party among those registered in 1998 that is still surviving,” he stated. “We are inviting all other parties including ADC, Labour, SDP, and others to join forces to build a stronger, united front.”
Shekarau emphasized that his call for coalition stems from a vision to strengthening democracy, regardless of whether he personally witnesses its full realization.
On national governance, the former governor reaffirmed his commitment to serve as a voice of constructive opposition, pledging to challenge wrongdoings in any administration regardless of political affiliation.
Shekarau also identified food security as the foundation of economic stability.