A faction within the Peoples Democratic Party, supported by Seyi Makinde, held a high-level meeting with leaders of the African Democratic Congress, including David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola, as part of ongoing efforts to build a political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.
The closed-door meeting, which took place in Abuja, reportedly focused on possible collaboration between both parties, including discussions on a joint platform, power-sharing arrangements, and strategies to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next general election.
Sources familiar with the discussions revealed that opposition leaders are considering forming a united front to strengthen their chances, although final decisions on the platform to adopt are still being reviewed due to ongoing legal and internal party issues.
Speaking after the meeting, Makinde described the gathering as a show of unity and reaffirmed the commitment of opposition figures to preserving democracy in Nigeria. However, he declined to confirm whether a formal agreement had been reached.
Prominent political figures present at the meeting included Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Aminu Tambuwal, among others.
Despite the reports, a rival faction within the PDP aligned with Nyesom Wike dismissed claims of any official alliance with the ADC, insisting that no such meeting was authorised by the party and that those involved acted in their personal capacities.
Meanwhile, both parties are currently facing internal leadership crises and legal battles, raising concerns about their readiness for the 2027 elections. The electoral body, Independent National Electoral Commission, has also been drawn into the controversy following disputes over party leadership recognition.
Earlier, opposition leaders staged a protest in Abuja, demanding fairness in the electoral process and calling for accountability within INEC. They warned against any actions that could weaken democratic institutions or promote a one-party system in the country.
The opposition figures maintained that they would continue consultations and engagements aimed at protecting Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring a credible alternative in the upcoming elections.
