…Alleges bias, insecurity crisis
A political pressure group, Team New Nigeria (TNN), has announced plans to conclude a strategic coalition with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), positioning the alliance as a major opposition bloc ahead of future general elections.
Speaking at the TNN National Conference in Kano yesterday, the group’s president, Modibbo Yakubun Faraƙwai, said the coalition move followed what he described as “institutional obstacles” and perceived bias encountered in TNN’s attempt to register as a political party with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Faraƙwai disclosed that negotiations with the SDP were in advanced stages, with both parties working toward a formal agreement that would integrate TNN’s grassroots network into the SDP’s existing political structure.
According to him, the proposed alliance includes a 50 percent representation for TNN members across all party structures, from ward to national level, as well as the establishment of a joint committee to oversee transparent primary elections for candidates. He added that both sides are also considering a legally binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering administrative integration, resource allocation, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
The TNN leader described the coalition as a “strategic alternative” aimed at building a formidable opposition capable of displacing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Faraƙwai painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s security situation, alleging that more than 68 local government areas across the North-East and North-West regions had become inaccessible to government authority due to the activities of armed non-state actors.
He also criticised the current administration, accusing it of lacking the capacity to address insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges, while alleging a steady decline in living standards. “The ship of state is drifting”, he stated, calling on the National Assembly to take decisive steps to restore stability.
The TNN president further urged opposition groups to set aside personal ambitions and unite, stressing that only a consolidated political front could address what he described as “systemic failure” in governance. He maintained that the coalition would prioritise security, economic revitalisation, energy supply, education, and agricultural productivity if successful.
Faraƙwai also accused the government of undermining democratic processes, alleging irregularities in elections and a culture of impunity, while calling for electoral reforms to ensure that votes count.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to support the emerging alliance, expressing confidence that the coalition would provide a credible alternative and “restore hope” in the country’s democratic system.
