Opposition leaders from across the country converged in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday for a national summit aimed at strengthening collaboration among political parties ahead of future elections.
The meeting, chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, brought together key figures from major opposition platforms, including the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party.
The summit, themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” is being held at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House. Organisers said it was convened in response to prevailing socio-economic and security challenges facing the country.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar confirmed his arrival via a post on X, while former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, also announced his participation, expressing readiness for deliberations with other political leaders.
Former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and Lagos State 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, are among early arrivals.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour. Photo credit: Oyo Affairs
Other prominent attendees include former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.
The summit is expected to focus on fostering unity among opposition parties and outlining a coordinated political strategy ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.
Speakers lined up for the event include former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Chidi Odinkalu, former lawmaker Usman Bugaje, and ex-Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, who is billed to speak on credible elections. Professor Pat Utomi is also expected to address economic reforms, while security expert Kabir Adamu will speak on insecurity.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress was plotting to disrupt the gathering, a claim the APC had yet to respond to as of the time of filing this report.
The ADC also highlighted the presence of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, alongside key members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, noting that the meeting could mark a significant step toward building a unified opposition front.
