2023: PRP plots merger, rejects zoning

The opposition Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) is working on a merger with some political groups ahead of the 2023 presidential election to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).  

The national chairman of the party, Falalu Bello, disclosed this to journalists shortly after a meeting of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees and other stakeholders of the party in Abuja on Saturday.

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He said, “We are looking at the invitation to merge and form alliances. We are in discussions with some groups, the National Consultative Front (NCFront) for example, and the Rescue Nigeria Mission. These are two movements created towards the formation of a mega party to challenge the misrule of the PDP and APC in Nigeria

“Quite a number of these parties believe it is necessary for us to form a national government in 2023. This issue has dominated the meeting. We had a paper from Professor Attahiru Jega on merger and alliances, which it was discussed; and we have agreed on what we are going to do.”

Bello clarified that the PRP would field a candidate for the 2023 presidential election from anywhere in the country.

“Whether we go into alliance or merger, this issue is settled. Anybody from anywhere in Nigeria is free to come and contest the presidency under the PRP

“What is important to us is a person with integrity, not because he is rich or has a godfather or sponsors. We will soon develop a template for leadership in Nigeria, and that template will cover the presidency, governors, members of the National Assembly,” he said.