Atiku, Kwankwaso, others converge in Ibadan for opposition unity summit

Top opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, have gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, for a national summit aimed at strengthening cooperation among political parties.

The meeting, chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, is being held at the Government House Banquet Hall under the theme, “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy.”

Leaders from major opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are participating in the summit, which organisers say is a response to Nigeria’s current socio-economic and security challenges.

In separate posts on X, Atiku and Kwankwaso confirmed their arrival, expressing readiness to engage in discussions focused on building a more coordinated opposition front ahead of future elections.

The summit is expected to feature presentations from key stakeholders, including Chidi Odinkalu, Usman Bugaje, and Pat Utomi, who will address issues ranging from democratic governance to economic reform.

Other speakers include Mike Igini, who will speak on electoral integrity, and Kabir Adamu, who is expected to examine the country’s security challenges.

Organisers say the gathering is a strategic effort to deepen collaboration among opposition blocs and present a credible alternative political direction for the country.

However, the event has been shadowed by allegations from the African Democratic Congress that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to disrupt the meeting—claims that had not been officially responded to as of the time of filing this report.

Other notable figures, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, were also reported to be in attendance, as opposition leaders continue deliberations on forging a united front.