Opposition Leaders Meet in Abuja as PDP Faces Internal Rift Over Proposed Alliance

The political landscape ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is evolving following a high-level meeting involving key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

The meeting, held in Abuja on Wednesday and hosted by former Senate President David Mark, focused on potential collaboration between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections.

Makinde described the gathering as a “solidarity visit” aimed at defending Nigeria’s democratic space. Sources indicated that discussions included the possibility of forming a common platform among opposition groups.

Other prominent figures at the meeting included Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rotimi Amaechi, and Bukola Saraki.

However, the development has triggered internal disagreement within the PDP. A faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, distanced itself from the meeting.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said the party had not approved any merger discussions and described those involved as acting independently.

Earlier on Wednesday, opposition leaders and their supporters staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja. They called for the resignation of INEC Chairman, Joseph Amupitan, alleging bias following the commission’s decision to derecognize the David Mark-led ADC leadership.

Atiku and Obi also warned against actions they said could undermine opposition activities, as political alignments continue ahead of the 2027 election cycle.