Opposition Leaders Unite in Ibadan for Strategic Summit

IBADAN, Oyo State — Opposition leaders from across Nigeria converged on Ibadan on Saturday for a national summit aimed at building a united front to tackle the country’s mounting socio-economic and security challenges.

The high-level meeting, held at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, drew figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and other opposition groups.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo chaired the session, while Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State hosted the gathering. Organisers described the summit as a critical step towards realigning opposition forces ahead of future elections.

The event, themed “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” focused on forging stronger collaboration among parties traditionally divided by differing interests.

In a statement issued via the PDP’s official X account, the organisers said the summit represents a strategic response to Nigeria’s deepening crises, calling for urgent and coordinated political action.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar confirmed his attendance, announcing his arrival in Ibadan for the gathering of opposition parties.

Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso also signalled his readiness for what he described as meaningful discussions with fellow national leaders.

Other prominent attendees who arrived early included former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s 2023 Lagos State governorship candidate.

Insiders at the meeting indicated that deliberations would centre on creating a unified opposition framework, enhancing inter-party cooperation, and developing a clear political roadmap to challenge the ruling party in forthcoming polls.

The summit comes at a time when many Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity and widespread calls for better governance across the federation.

NaijaChoice News understands that the gathering is being viewed by participants as a bold attempt to reposition the opposition as a credible alternative capable of sustaining democratic values.

The outcome of the Ibadan summit could significantly shape the direction of opposition politics in Nigeria in the years ahead.