Obasanjo, Atiku, Kwankwaso Lead Opposition Unity Talks in Ibadan Summit

Obasanjo, Atiku, Kwankwaso Lead Opposition Unity Talks in Ibadan Summit

Leading opposition figures in Nigeria on Saturday converged in Ibadan for a high-level national summit aimed at building political unity, strengthening cooperation, and repositioning opposition parties ahead of future elections.

The meeting, held at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, brought together key stakeholders from major opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and other political blocs.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo presided over the summit, while Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde served as host. The gathering was convened under the theme “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” reflecting efforts to build a more coordinated opposition coalition in Nigeria. Organisers described the summit as a strategic response to rising concerns over economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges in the country.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar confirmed his presence at the summit, describing it as a broad consultation involving opposition parties across the country. Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso also attended, expressing optimism about the discussions aimed at fostering political cooperation and national stability.

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Other prominent attendees included former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Lagos State, alongside representatives from multiple opposition platforms.

Discussions at the summit reportedly centered on building a unified opposition front, improving collaboration among parties, and developing a coordinated strategy for upcoming elections. Sources said participants also explored ways to reduce internal divisions that have historically weakened opposition performance during national polls.

Although no formal coalition was announced, insiders described the meeting as a significant step toward possible opposition realignment in Nigeria. The Ibadan summit comes amid increasing political engagements across Nigeria as parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Analysts believe the presence of top political figures at the same forum signals renewed momentum toward strengthening opposition influence and possibly reshaping the country’s political landscape. However, no official communiqué outlining final resolutions had been released at the time of filing this report.

Obasanjo, Atiku, Kwankwaso Lead Opposition Unity Talks in Ibadan Summit