By The Daily Reality
Key opposition figures from across Nigeria gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday for a national summit focused on strengthening collaboration among political parties and promoting a united front ahead of future elections.
The meeting, which is taking place at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, has former President Olusegun Obasanjo as chairman, while Governor Seyi Makinde is hosting the event. Participants include leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and other political groups.
Organisers say the summit carries the theme, “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” and is designed to address pressing national concerns. In a statement posted on the official X handle of the Peoples Democratic Party, the gathering was described as a response to the “socio-economic and security challenges currently facing the Federation.”
Prominent political figures have also confirmed their presence. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar announced, “I have just arrived in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of all opposition parties.” Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso also shared his participation, stating, “Excited to arrive in Ibadan… ready for meaningful engagements with fellow national leaders.”
Among those who arrived early are former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.
Discussions at the summit are expected to centre on improving cooperation among opposition parties and outlining a joint political strategy ahead of upcoming electoral contests. Several experts and public figures are scheduled to speak on key national issues. Former National Human Rights Commission chairman Chidi Odinkalu and ex-lawmaker Usman Bugaje are expected to address matters relating to democratic sustainability and governance.
A former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Mike Igini, will present a paper on credible elections, while Professor Pat Utomi is billed to speak on building a productive and efficient economy. Security expert Kabir Adamu will examine “the tragedy of widespread insecurity in Nigeria”.
Organisers believe the summit represents a significant step toward building consensus among opposition blocs and presenting a viable alternative in future elections.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress has raised concerns about alleged interference by the ruling All Progressives Congress. In a post on X, the party claimed, “We have uncovered plans by the ruling APC to disrupt the summit being held by the opposition parties in Ibadan, Oyo State, today, the 25th of April.
“After denying us the use of venues in Abuja, they now will not leave us alone to hold our meetings.
“They say they are not scared, but they are behaving like people who are terrified. But we will not be deterred, because we are on the side of the Nigerian people,” the post read.
As of the time of filing this report, the APC had not issued any official response to the allegation, and attempts to reach its spokesperson, Felix Morka, were unsuccessful.
The ADC also highlighted the presence of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, alongside former Kano State Deputy Governor Nasiru Gawuna and members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. The party noted, “The summit sets the stage for a strategic tightening of ties between key political blocs,” underscoring expectations of stronger alliances among opposition leaders.
