Shina Peller calls on opposition figures to unite for Nigeria’s rescue from APC in 2027, as hunger and lack of freedom of speech take a toll
Former House of Representatives member, Hon. Shina Abiola Peller, has called on opposition political figures to set aside differences and unite in a bid to rescue Nigeria from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
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Speaking to journalists after the 7th Annual Shina Peller Ramadan Lecture/Iftar held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Ibadan, Peller emphasised the urgency of building a strong opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Peller, who represented the Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Iwajowa/Kajola Federal Constituency between 2019 and 2023, expressed deep concern over the current state of the nation, pointing out that hunger has become widespread and citizens are dissatisfied with the government’s handling of the nation’s affairs.
“There is hunger in the land. People are not happy, and you will agree with me that a hungry person is an angry person,” Peller said. He went on to highlight the frustration he has witnessed firsthand from a broad cross-section of Nigerians, including market women and religious groups.
“I am well connected with people, and I can categorically tell you that hunger is prevalent, and the people are not pleased with the direction the country is headed.”
According to Peller, the worsening situation in Nigeria calls for an opposition that can hold the current administration accountable and provide constructive criticism.
He reiterated the need for opposition figures to come together, saying that the country’s future depends on collective action for the national interest, rather than individual political ambitions.
“The country is in bad shape,” he declared. “We need a formidable opposition to check the excesses of the current administration.
People should drop personal ambitions and prioritise the national interest.” He also stressed that the lack of freedom of speech is a growing concern, referencing a recent incident where a corps member who voiced her concerns was reportedly threatened to take down a video.
Peller further lamented the deterioration of the nation’s political atmosphere, noting that many are now fearful of criticising the government, either due to intimidation or because some individuals in power are focused on personal enrichment.
“We must all come together for the sake of Nigeria’s future. Democracy requires a functional opposition to ensure checks and balances,” he stated.
The event also featured a lecture by the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Hashim Atere, who delivered an insightful lecture on “Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship in Islam: Lessons from the Prophet’s Life.”
Sheikh Atere urged governments at all levels to empower more youths, describing the youth as the future of the nation.
He stated, “Youthful age is important in Islam. We need to empower the youth because they are the future of Nigeria. If you are knowledgeable, opportunities will come at any time.
There are many youths with talents but no sponsors. Economic empowerment is key to Nigeria’s future.”
Sheikh Atere’s remarks resonated with Peller’s call for unity and forward-thinking action, both in political and socio-economic arenas.
The event concluded with a shared hope that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges through collective effort and unity.
