By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara, Abakaliki
Daniel Okorie, a former Technical Assistant to ex-Governor David Umahi, has cautioned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against underestimating the potential of the emerging coalition of opposition parties, warning that dismissing it as mere political theatre would be politically unwise.
Okorie, who served as Umahi’s aide on Students’ Affairs and is now a Nigerian-Canadian-based estate lawyer, made this statement during an interview with reporters on Thursday in Abakaliki.
According to him, the credibility of any political coalition lies not merely in its formation, but in the quality and competence of individuals it puts forward for leadership.
“Past elections have revealed a growing political consciousness among Nigerians. Increasingly, voters are transcending party lines and making decisions based on personal credibility, competence, and proven track records,” he said.
Drawing from personal experience, Okorie disclosed that he and his family voted across party lines in the last general elections choices he believes have since been vindicated.
“Party loyalty, in the absence of substance, no longer carries the weight it once did. Nigeria’s political parties are not ideological institutions in the true sense; rather, they function more like public vehicles—often abandoned when no longer functional,” he noted.
He emphasized that the viability of the emerging opposition coalition would depend largely on the calibre of candidates it presents, the strength of its message, and the sincerity of its mission.
Commending the APC-led administration in Ebonyi State, Okorie applauded Governor Francis Nwifuru for his inclusive leadership and stakeholder engagement, describing it as a stabilizing political force at the state level.
“His inclusive approach has created a political environment that will be difficult to upend, at least at the state level,” he said.
Okorie, a former president of the Ebonyi State University Students Union Government (SUG), however, noted that the national political landscape remains far more complex. He said the success of the opposition at the federal level would depend on its ability to present a clear, unified vision and operate with discipline.
He acknowledged concerns that the coalition could collapse due to personal egos and a lack of shared values, but argued that prevailing economic hardships and insecurity may force unlikely political alignments.
“Desperate times often create uncommon alliances. This time presents a unique opportunity. But success will not be automatic—it will depend on strategic thinking, clear messaging, and a sincere commitment to national interest,” Okorie stated.
Speaking as the founder of the OO Daniels Foundation, he expressed concern over widespread public frustration, asserting that history could repeat itself in 2027 with the ruling party potentially losing power if the opposition gets its strategy right.
“In any democracy, power is not guaranteed—it is earned and re-earned through performance, credibility, and trust. Public sentiment is shifting, and citizens are more politically aware than ever before,” he said.
He concluded that the outcome of the 2027 elections would be determined not just by party machinery but by how well parties align themselves with the real aspirations of the Nigerian people.