Key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, on Saturday converged on Ibadan, Oyo State, for a high-level summit aimed at fostering unity among political parties ahead of future elections.
The gathering, held at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, brings together leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party and other political groups.
The summit, themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” is chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, serving as host.
Organisers said the meeting was convened as a strategic response to Nigeria’s prevailing socio-economic and security challenges, stressing the need for a coordinated opposition front.
Atiku, in a post on X, confirmed his arrival, stating that he was in Ibadan for the national summit of opposition parties.
Similarly, Kwankwaso expressed readiness for “meaningful engagements” with other political leaders at the event.
Discussions at the summit are expected to centre on strengthening collaboration among opposition blocs and mapping out a unified political direction.
Among those billed to speak are former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Chidi Odinkalu, and ex-lawmaker Usman Bugaje, who will address issues surrounding democratic sustainability and governance.
Also scheduled are presentations by former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, on credible elections; political economist, Pat Utomi, on economic reforms; and security expert, Kabir Adamu, on the country’s security challenges.
However, the African Democratic Congress alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress was plotting to disrupt the meeting.
In a statement shared on X, the party claimed that efforts had earlier been made to frustrate the summit by denying organisers access to venues in Abuja.
The APC had yet to respond to the allegation as of press time, with attempts to reach its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, proving abortive.
Meanwhile, organisers noted that prominent political actors, including former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and key members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, were also in attendance.
They described the summit as a significant step towards building consensus and strengthening alliances within the opposition ahead of future electoral contests.