By Erewunmi Peace

The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has reportedly adopted the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as its preferred political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The decision was said to have been reached during a high-level meeting held in Ilesa, Osun State, where key political stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of Nigeria’s political landscape.

According to reports, Afenifere resolved to mobilize support for the SDP, signaling what many observers describe as a potential shift in political alliances ahead of the next election cycle.

The development has sparked conversations about a broader realignment, especially as representatives linked to northern groups such as the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) were also reportedly present at the meeting.
However, the ACF has since clarified that its participation was strictly in an observer capacity and does not amount to an official endorsement of the SDP.

Political analysts say the move by Afenifere, if sustained, could influence voting patterns in the South-West and reshape alliances ahead of 2027.

Nonetheless, they caution that internal divisions within socio-political groups and ongoing consultations mean that positions may still evolve.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, Nigerians are expected to witness increased negotiations, coalition-building, and strategic alignments among political actors.